RSS Affiliate Protests US Military Actions, Demands Probe into Indian Seafarer Deaths

In a letter addressed to Ambassador Gor, SJM national co-convenor Ashwani Mahajan expressed deep pain and anguish, stating that the alleged unprovoked killings by US armed forces have caused widespread disbelief and anger in India. Mahajan criticized the US administration's response as insensitive and irresponsible, further hurting Indian sentiments.

The SJM is calling for accountability for both individuals and state actors responsible for the deaths. They are also demanding compensation and justice for the victims' families, along with assurances that such incidents will not recur and that international legal obligations will be upheld. Mahajan emphasized that India's resolve is firm in ensuring the dignity and safety of Indian seafarers.

Mahajan further alleged that the US actions constitute a serious violation of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Geneva Conventions. He highlighted that UNCLOS guarantees freedom of navigation and protection for merchant vessels and civilian seafarers, while the Geneva Conventions protect civilian lives during armed conflict. The SJM believes that attacking non-combatant seafarers violates principles of distinction, proportionality, and necessity.

The organization also pointed to the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) global maritime safety framework, which obligates nations to protect life at sea. The SJM views the killing of innocent Indian seafarers as a challenge to the rule-based international order and a threat to global maritime security. They are seeking an explanation from the US administration, which they describe as a champion of human rights, regarding the attack on a vessel that had reportedly been stationary for days.