Daijiworld Media Network - Deoria

Deoria, Jul 1: The family of an Indian sailor who died while on duty in Venezuela has alleged that several of his internal organs were missing when his body was brought back to India nearly a month after his death, prompting demands for a thorough investigation.

Rakesh Chauhan (33), a marine fitter from Uttar Pradesh's Deoria district who was residing in Mumbai with his family, died in Venezuela on May 8 after reportedly sustaining injuries following a fall aboard a merchant vessel.

According to the family, the company initially informed them that Chauhan had fallen due to dizziness and later succumbed to his injuries during treatment, allegedly following a heart attack.

However, after his body arrived in India, a second post-mortem conducted in Deoria reportedly revealed that several vital organs, including the brain, heart, liver, lungs, kidneys, spleen, pancreas and intestines, were missing. The autopsy also noted multiple surgical stitches extending from the neck to the lower abdomen, making it impossible to ascertain the exact cause of death as no viscera remained for forensic examination.

The Federation of Seafarers' Unions of India (FSUI) has demanded a comprehensive investigation, questioning why the body was repatriated without the Venezuelan autopsy report being shared with the family or Indian authorities.

In a statement, the union raised concerns over the alleged removal of vital organs without the family's knowledge or consent and pointed to discrepancies in official documents, including an alleged forged receipt for the mortal remains and inconsistencies regarding the vessel on which Chauhan was employed.

The FSUI urged the Indian Embassy in Venezuela to intervene and sought justice, accountability and adequate compensation for the bereaved family.

The family has also accused the employer of withholding crucial information regarding the post-mortem conducted abroad and has sought a detailed probe into the circumstances surrounding Chauhan's death.

Rakesh Chauhan had joined the Merchant Navy in November 2025. He is survived by his wife, six-month-old son, father and brother. His wife, Ranjana, is reportedly in touch with the Indian Embassy while pursuing justice and compensation.