A family in Sri Ganganagar is feeling anxious as reports reveal that a Merchant Navy officer from their district is stuck on a ship in the Strait of Hormuz amidst rising tensions. Local Member of Legislative Assembly Jaideep Bihani has reached out to Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, urging immediate diplomatic action. The officer, Sanjay Mahar, is serving as Second Officer on an Indian ship that has been detained, and Bihani is calling for swift efforts to secure their release.
Jaideep Bihani has made a plea to top officials, including Prime Minister Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, to intervene promptly and ensure the safe return of Sanjay Mahar and the rest of the stranded crew. Sanjay Mahar, a 38-year-old Second Officer residing in Riddhi-Siddhi Colony, is part of a container ship named Epaminondas sailing under a Liberian flag. The ship, bound for Mundra Port in Gujarat, was stopped in the middle of its journey after facing obstruction in the Strait of Hormuz.
Sanjay Mahar’s brother, Subhash Mahar, disclosed that the ship was encircled by Iranian forces around 30 hours ago as it tried to proceed, with reports indicating gunfire during the confrontation. The crew members, including individuals from India, the Philippines, Ukraine, and Sri Lanka, have sought refuge in secure areas within the vessel following the incident. Communication has been severed due to the suspension of internet services, leaving family members distressed and eagerly awaiting updates on the situation.
The family is urging the Central Government to intervene urgently to ensure the safety and prompt return of all crew members stranded on the ship.
