“Despite continuous efforts made by his crew members and the authorities concerned, no information regarding his whereabouts has been received so far,” Dwivedi said.
In her letter, Anupriya Patel wrote that Manish’s disappearance and the uncertainty surrounding his safety were causing great anxiety, fear and emotional distress to his family, who were waiting for any positive news about their son.
She added in the correspondence that the parents of the Merchant Marine officer were deeply shocked and looked to the government with hope and faith at this extremely difficult time.
“I will be grateful if you could kindly direct the Embassy of India in the United States of America to extend all possible assistance and coordinate with the relevant local authorities to trace Manish at the earliest and ensure his safety and well-being. Any timely intervention in this matter would provide much-needed comfort and reassurance to the distraught family,” she added.
Manish’s family mentioned that they last spoke to him on May 6, after which all communication was suddenly cut off.
Dwivedi said the family came to know that Manish was missing when his company’s office in Mumbai called them.
It is learned that the other three colleagues who accompanied him have returned to the boat, but Manish has not returned. Dwivedi said their concern deepened as the ship reportedly sailed ahead without Manish on board.
