Family of Indian Seafarer Killed in Black Sea Attack Demands Martyr Status
The family of Sagar Gupta, an Indian seafarer killed in a drone attack in the Black Sea, is demanding that he be recognized as a martyr. Gupta, who was serving as a Merchant Navy chief officer, died after his vessel was attacked amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. His remains were returned to his hometown of Kanpur, India, 18 days after the incident. The family is refusing to perform last rites until their demands for martyr status, financial compensation, and a government job for Gupta's widow are met. The situation has drawn attention to the risks faced by seafarers in conflict zones and the need for governmental support for their families.