Family of missing Odia sailor returns from Singapore, alleges non-cooperation by company

The family of missing Odia sailor Sarthak Mahapatra returned to Bhubaneswar on Tuesday after an unsuccessful search operation in Singapore, alleging non-cooperation from the company operating the vessel from which he reportedly went missing.

Sarthak was reported missing under mysterious circumstances on February 3 while on board a vessel in Singapore. In an effort to trace him, his mother, Rashmita Mahapatra, and his uncle travelled to Singapore to conduct a search.

Vessel Inspection Conducted

During their visit, the family was accompanied by two senior officials from the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), representing the Government of India. The team inspected several sections of the vessel where Sarthak was last reported to have been present.

However, despite the joint inspection, no information regarding his whereabouts could be established.

Allegations of Non-Cooperation

Sarthak’s uncle alleged that while Indian government officials extended full support, the shipping company did not cooperate adequately.

“We received significant assistance from Indian government officials. However, the company did not assist us. They did not allow us to remain on the vessel for more than two hours or inspect it thoroughly. When we tried to speak to the crew members, two HR personnel prevented us from interacting with them,” he said.

The family further alleged that vessel authorities closely monitored their movements during the visit and restricted access to certain areas of the ship. They claimed they were not allowed to freely question crew members about the circumstances surrounding Sarthak’s disappearance.

Family Seeks Answers

Raising serious concerns, the family questioned how Sarthak could go missing from the vessel without any clear explanation. They alleged that crucial information may be withheld and have called for a more detailed and transparent investigation.

Also Read: No trace of missing Odia sailor after vessel inspection by family, govt officials in Singapore

Meanwhile, Sarthak’s grandmother claimed that her grandson may have been hidden somewhere and appealed to authorities to trace him and ensure his safe return.

The family has urged both Indian and international authorities to intensify efforts to uncover the truth behind the sailor’s disappearance.