Shocking Case: India Flags Concern As Seafarer’s Body Returns From Venezuela Missing Vital Organs

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has formally raised with the Venezuelan authorities the disturbing case of an Indian seafarer whose body was returned to India with several vital internal organs missing. Calling for an immediate investigation, the Centre has sought answers into the circumstances surrounding the death and the condition in which the body was repatriated.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal , addressing the weekly media briefing on Friday, confirmed that India has urged Venezuela to conduct an urgent inquiry. He said the government has taken up the matter with the concerned authorities and assured that updates would be shared as the investigation progresses.

The deceased, Rakesh Chauhan , a 33 year old resident of Deoria district in Uttar Pradesh , had travelled to Venezuela in November 2025 to work as a crew member on a merchant vessel through a private company.

According to his family, they were informed in May 2026 that Chauhan had suffered serious injuries after allegedly falling onboard the ship and was receiving medical treatment. However, within a day, the company informed them that he had died.

The family has also alleged significant delays in the repatriation process. Although the company reportedly assured them that Chauhan's body would reach India within a week, it was returned nearly a month later, raising further concerns.

The case took a shocking turn after doctors conducted a post mortem examination at Deoria Medical College . Chief Medical Superintendent Dr H K Mishra revealed that several major internal organs, including the brain, heart, both lungs, liver, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, stomach and intestines , were missing. The report also noted the absence of the thyroid, hyoid bone, larynx and trachea .

Medical experts stated that because of the missing organs, the exact cause of death could not be determined , adding another layer of mystery to the case.

The incident has triggered widespread concern, with the bereaved family demanding a transparent investigation and accountability. As India presses Venezuela for answers, the outcome of the probe is expected to be closely watched.