The Indian High Commission in London is closely monitoring the case of merchant navy captain Ajay Pant from Uttarakhand's Nainital district. Pant was arrested in the United Kingdom for allegedly violating British sanctions related to Russian oil shipments, state government officials said on Thursday.
As per an official statement, the High Commission informed Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami about the developments through a letter.
The mission said at present, Captain Pant is lodged in HMP Winchester. Officials spoke to him over the prison telephone system on June 19. During the conversation, Pant said he was in good health, receiving medical care in prison, and staying in regular contact with his wife.
The High Commission has also taken up the matter with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. It has sought timely consular access and asked the British authorities to ensure Pant's safety, health and legal rights.
The letter said the mission is in regular touch with Pant's wife, his lawyers and his employer, Energios Maritime Private Limited. The company has assured the High Commission that it will arrange legal support for Pant and extend all necessary assistance to his family.
Pant's next court hearing is scheduled for July 16. The High Commission has assured the Uttarakhand government that it will continue providing consular assistance and support to him and his family.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the state government is concerned about the welfare of its citizens. He said it is in constant contact with the Union government, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian High Commission in London.
Dhami expressed confidence that all the agencies concerned are working together to ensure Captain Pant receives the necessary assistance.
Pant, 38, was serving as the captain of MV Smyrtoz, a Russian shadow fleet tanker reportedly carrying about 98,000 tonnes of crude oil. The vessel was intercepted in the English Channel on June 14 during a joint operation by the UK National Crime Agency and the British Armed Forces.
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