Family of Tamil Nadu fisherman allegedly killed in Saudi Arabia seeks early repatriation
The family of P. Maveeran, a 39-year-old fisherman from Thoduvai village in Sirkali taluk, Mayiladuthurai district, has appealed to the Tamil Nadu government to secure the early repatriation of his body from Saudi Arabia. Maveeran was allegedly shot dead while fishing in Saudi Arabian waters on the night of August 10, along with two other fishermen from Cuddalore and Mayiladuthurai districts.
According to a close relative, S. Kumar, the family was informed about Maveeran's death on Tuesday morning by fellow fishermen who were with him during the incident. Maveeran had been working as a fisherman in Saudi Arabia for several years and had visited his village earlier this year. He left for Saudi Arabia in May after spending time with his family, Kumar added.
Maveeran is survived by his wife, a daughter, and a son. His family members, in deep distress, have urged the authorities to bring his remains back to his native village for the final rites at the earliest.
On Wednesday, the family submitted a petition to Mayiladuthurai District Collector H.S. Srikanth, requesting the government's intervention to repatriate the body. Responding to the plea, the district administration brought the matter to the notice of the State government through a written communication. The details have also been conveyed to the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia, the administration authorities confirmed.
On Thursday, a Fisheries Department official from Mayiladuthurai district visited Thoduvai and met Maveeran's family, apprising them of the steps taken by the district administration and the department to facilitate the body's return. Officials assured the family of all possible assistance.
The incident highlights the vulnerabilities faced by Indian fishermen employed in overseas waters. Many workers from coastal Tamil Nadu travel to Gulf countries for fishing jobs, often under challenging conditions. In cases of death, families frequently encounter bureaucratic hurdles in repatriating bodies, which can delay funeral rites and add to their grief.
The State government and the Indian Embassy have not yet announced a timeline for the repatriation. The family, meanwhile, has appealed for swift action so that Maveeran can be laid to rest in his homeland. The district administration said it is in continuous touch with the authorities concerned.
