New Delhi — The Indian government has formally requested that Venezuelan authorities investigate the alleged disappearance of organs from the body of Rakesh Chauhan, a 33‑year‑old Indian seafarer who died of a heart attack on May 7 in the state of Falcón, according to a death certificate issued by a local medical facility.
Chauhan, who had been working aboard a vessel that called at a Venezuelan port, was pronounced dead at a hospital in Falcón. The death certificate, obtained by Indian officials, lists a myocardial infarction as the cause of death. However, Chauhan’s family in India alleges that after the body was handed over to local authorities, several of his organs were removed without their consent.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has conveyed the family’s concerns to the Venezuelan Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Interior, seeking a transparent inquiry into the handling of the remains. A senior MEA spokesperson said the request is intended to “ascertain the facts and ensure that any wrongdoing is fully investigated.”
Venezuela’s health ministry confirmed receipt of the request but did not comment on the specifics of the case, citing “ongoing procedural matters.” The ministry said it would cooperate with any investigation in line with bilateral agreements.
The incident has raised diplomatic sensitivities, as both countries have been working to strengthen maritime labor cooperation under the International Labour Organization’s Maritime Labour Convention. Indian officials have emphasized that the matter concerns the rights of Indian nationals abroad and the need for procedural safeguards when handling the remains of deceased citizens.
Analysis: The request for an inquiry underscores a broader pattern of Indian diplomatic interventions when the welfare of overseas workers is perceived to be at risk. While the death certificate attributes Chauhan’s demise to natural causes, the family’s claim of organ removal—if substantiated—could trigger scrutiny of Venezuela’s medical and forensic protocols, especially in cases involving foreign nationals. The outcome may also affect future bilateral engagements on maritime labor and consular assistance.
Sources
– Hindustan Times, “India seeks Venezuela probe into missing organs of dead seafarer,” May 30 2026, https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-seeks-venezuela-probe-into-missing-organs-of-dead-seafarer-101783090675774.html
Story synopsis gathered from: Hindustan Times – India News — source
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