London, (Zahid Anwar Mirza) __ A serious diplomatic situation has emerged in Iran, where a 16-member Indian crew aboard an oil tanker has been detained by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). According to the Indian Embassy, the vessel MT Valiant Roar was intercepted and seized on December 8 near the UAE port of Dibba while sailing in international waters.

Iranian authorities claim the ship was involved in the smuggling of 6,000 tonnes of fuel. India, however, has raised strong reservations over the allegations and has formally demanded immediate consular access to its detained nationals.

The Indian Embassy stated that despite multiple diplomatic communications since December 14 and high-level meetings in Tehran and Bandar Abbas, the crew has not been allowed to contact their families. Reports of shortages of food and water on board prompted intervention by the Indian mission, after which the Iranian Navy supplied emergency provisions.

Diplomatic sources say contact has also been established with the ship’s owning company to ensure legal assistance and the provision of basic facilities for the crew. Indian officials have clarified that while the matter is expected to proceed under Iran’s judicial system, New Delhi will continue diplomatic pressure to safeguard the rights and welfare of its citizens.