Bringing to an end a 35-day wait for a grieving family, at 4.15 a.m. on April 5, a heavy wooden crate arrived at Mumbai International Airport. Inside was the body of 33-year-old sailor Dixit Solanki, who was killed in an attack off the Oman coast last month during the Iran war.
He is the first Indian sailor killed in an attack off the Oman coast last month during the Iran war.
For his father Amritlal and sister Mitali, it marked the end of a 35-day wait that began on March 1, when a missile strike on the oil tanker MT MKD Vyom turned a routine journey into a tragedy. But the moment of return brought new uncertainty.
Family halts last rites
The Solanki family has decided to stop the funeral. Instead of proceeding with cremation, the body has been moved to a city mortuary.
They have demanded a DNA test to confirm the identity before performing the last rites. The demand comes after what they describe as several “red flags” over the past month. While other crew members returned with their belongings, Dixit’s laptop, phone and personal journals are missing.
Father questions official version
Amritlal Solanki has expressed doubts since the incident. Speaking earlier, he said he would not accept his son’s death without seeing the body himself.
“There is a picture of Dixit in the house, but I haven’t put a garland on it yet. Until I see my son’s body with my own eyes, I will not believe he is gone,” he said.
He also questioned the details of the attack, asking why the ship’s siren did not sound and saying many questions remain unanswered.
Case reaches Bombay HC
The body’s return followed legal action by the family, who approached the Bombay High Court last week. They sought answers from the shipping company, V Ships India Pvt Ltd.
The case is being heard on April 6. For the family, the fight has shifted from the conflict at sea to seeking clarity and accountability.
Waiting for proof
In MHB Colony of Mahavir Nagar, Dixit was known as a quiet man who went back to sea to support his family after his mother’s death.
Neighbours have gathered in support of the family. But for Amritlal Solanki, closure depends on proof. Until a DNA test confirms the identity, the family’s wait continues.
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