Protest by NUSI against suspension of Anglo Eastern RPSL suspension
Massive Uproar as NUSI and Indian Mariners Rally Against Anglo Eastern Ship Management's RPSL Suspension
The recent announcement of the suspension of Anglo Eastern, a major shipping company’s Recruitment and Placement Service License (RPSL), has reverberated throughout the maritime and seafaring community in India.
This suspension, effective immediately for a duration of three years, was declared on June 1st, 2023, by the Mumbai-based DSEO (Director, Seamens Employment Office), in accordance with Rule 12 of the Merchant Shipping (Recruitment and Placement Service) Rules of 2016.
This article aims to delve into the ramifications of this suspension, shed light on the protests by Indian seafarers, and bring attention to the highly controversial case involving the untimely demise of Chief Engineer Sanjay Chaudhary.
Outrage Grips Indian Mariners as Anglo Eastern’s RPSL Faces SuspensionÂ
The suspension of Anglo Eastern’s RPSL has instigated widespread chaos and indignation within the seafaring community in India.
The DSEO’s order, dated May 31st, 2023, explicitly stated the suspension of RPSL license numbered RPSL-MUM-088 for a period of three years.
However, it stressed that the responsibilities and obligations of the seafarers who were already recruited and presently serving aboard ships under the RPSL company’s purview would remain with M/s Anglo Eastern Ship Management Pvt. Ltd., RPSL-MUM-088.
This decision has left seafarers and their families in a state of uncertainty and profound distress.
Indian Mariners Rally Against the Suspension of Anglo Eastern’s RPSLÂ
NUSI (National Union of Seafarers of India) has taken a resolute stance against the suspension of Anglo Eastern’s RPSL.
In response to the circular issued by the Mumbai-based Director, Seamens Employment Office, NUSI has vehemently expressed its protest.
While NUSI acknowledges the necessity of a thorough investigation into the matter, it condemns the suspension as severe, arbitrary, and unnecessary.
The union is deeply concerned that this decision will result in the loss of employment for more than 20,000 Indian seafarers and tarnish the reputation of esteemed manning agencies operating from India.
Consequences and Call for Resolution
The suspension of Anglo Eastern’s RPSL has already inflicted significant damage.
Seafarers, who now confront job insecurity and hardships, find themselves contemplating an uncertain future.
The repercussions of this decision extend beyond individual seafarers; they may also have political implications that the Ministry of Shipping will need to address.
NUSI demands an immediate retraction of the detrimental circular and emphasizes the importance of conducting a comprehensive inquiry to achieve a fair and equitable resolution.
The Chief Engineer Sanjay Chaudhary Murder CaseÂ
Explore the details surrounding the controversial case of Chief Engineer Sanjay Chaudhary’s tragic demise.
Sanjay Chaudhary, who held the position of chief engineer on a vessel managed by Anglo Eastern, passed away on April 17th, 2018, while aboard the M.V. Atlantic Olive, a product tanker owned by International Seaways.
Although the official cause of death was recorded as acute cardiac arrest, Chaudhary’s wife and family suspect foul play.
Anglo Eastern’s Commitment and Present SituationÂ
Anglo Eastern, a prominent ship management company, employs over 20,000 Indian officers and crew members.
The company has maintained a longstanding commitment to the employment, training, and welfare of Indian seafarers over the course of three decades.
It has been honored with numerous accolades, including the esteemed title of being the top foreign employer of Indian seafarers at the 2023 National Maritime Day Awards.
Regarding the issue of the license, Anglo Eastern confirms that discussions are underway with the Directorate of Seamen’s Employment.
These discussions pertain to an ongoing case involving the controversial death of a senior officer in 2018.
While the company is legally prohibited from commenting on the case, it assures full cooperation with the authorities and remains confident in its ability to continue providing manning services for renowned international shipping companies.
Conclusion:
The suspension of Anglo Eastern’s RPSL has sparked chaos and unrest among Indian seafarers, who now grapple with uncertainty regarding their employment and future prospects.
The protests organized by NUSI highlight the dissatisfaction surrounding the suspension and call for its revocation, as well as a fair investigation into the matter.
The controversial case of Chief Engineer Sanjay Chaudhary’s untimely demise further adds to the complexity of the situation.
Despite the ongoing discussions and challenges, Anglo Eastern remains committed to the safety and well-being of its seafarers, eagerly anticipating a prompt resolution.
