Family of Indian seafarer who died in Venezuela alleges cover-up, seeks autopsy report

The family of Indian sailor Rakesh Chauhan, who died recently in Venezuela, has raised a number of questions regarding the handling of his case and demanded the release of the full autopsy report, according to a statement issued by the Advanced Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI).

The union said in a statement that the family had flagged what it called “deeply troubling irregularities” in the case and was seeking immediate clarification from authorities.

A certificate issued by the Indian Embassy in Caracas on May 22 stated that Venezuelan authorities recorded Chauhan’s cause of death as acute myocardial infarction, while bilateral pulmonary edema and hypertensive heart disease were listed as relevant conditions. The document states he died May 7 in Punto Fijo in Falcon State. It was also stated that the body was embalmed in accordance with national and international health standards and then sent to New Delhi.

However, FSUI said Chauhan’s family had raised some concerns. The relative said the genitals were removed from Chauhan’s body without informing the family or obtaining their consent. The family was allegedly not informed of the developments until they arranged for a new post-mortem examination in India. The receipt for the funeral was reportedly issued with the forged signature of Chauhan’s wife. The family alleged that the name of the ship mentioned in Chauhan’s employment contract did not match the ship on which he was actually assigned.

The union said these inconsistencies “raise suspicion of foul play and a possible cover-up.”

FSUI seeks investigation

FSUI has called for urgent intervention from the Indian Embassy in Venezuela and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). He requested the full autopsy report from Venezuelan authorities; A comprehensive, independent investigation into the circumstances of Chauhan’s death and the handling of his remains; and justice, accountability, and adequate compensation for the bereaved family.

The Indian Embassy in Venezuela and the Ministry of External Affairs are yet to issue a public response.