The family of Indian sailor Rakesh Chauhan and the Forward Seamen’s Union of India have sought an independent probe
July 2, 2026: The family of Indian sailor Rakesh Chauhan has alleged that he died under suspicious circumstances in Venezuela and accused the shipping company of withholding crucial information about his death. Chauhan’s wife, Ranjana, claimed her husband was murdered and that his internal organs had been removed before his body was returned to India. She also alleged that the company failed to provide a detailed report, did not return his personal belongings and was uncooperative despite repeated requests for information.
According to the Embassy of India in Caracas, Chauhan died on May 7 in Punto Fijo, Falcon State. Ranjana said the family sought a second post-mortem after his body arrived in India, which allegedly revealed that no internal organs were present. She said the family had approached the Ministry of External Affairs and other authorities but had not received any satisfactory response. The circumstances surrounding the reported accident and the handling of Chauhan’s remains have raised serious concerns.
The Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) has also called for an independent investigation, alleging major discrepancies in the documentation related to Chauhan’s death and employment records. The union claimed the post-mortem conducted in India found no internal organs and alleged irregularities in the receipt for the mortal remains and vessel details. It has urged the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Venezuela to obtain the complete autopsy report, investigate the case thoroughly and ensure justice, accountability and compensation for Chauhan’s family.