India in touch with Russia over detained Unity crew
India is maintaining regular communication with the Russian Embassy regarding the welfare and repatriation of the crew aboard the detained Unity oil tanker near Paradip Port in Odisha, announced the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday. The tanker remains anchored close to Paradip Port, where its detention was ordered by the Odisha High Court.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the MEA is aware of the situation and has been in regular contact with the Russian Embassy. The tanker's detention stems from a High Court order related to unpaid bunker fuel dues. The ILO-IMO database on abandoned seafarers lists the Unity as a case involving Russian seafarers, noting outstanding wages and repatriation pending.
The Russian Consulate in Kolkata stated that the vessel's crew includes 23 members, primarily Russians, with outstanding wages and a request for prompt repatriation. A repatriation hearing is set for September 21.
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