Date: 15th December, 2012

To, Dr. Man Mohan Singh Prime Minister of India, New Delhi

Subject: Request to intervene in the matter of Indian seafarers held hostage by Somali pirates

Dear Sir,

Aam Aadmi Party expresses deep concern and anguish over the plight of 17 Indian crew members of MT Royal Grace who have been held hostage by Somali pirates since March 2 this year. It is regrettable that even after nine months, the government has not taken any steps that could resolve the situation or even offer some ray of hope. The family members of these unfortunate victims have been left with no option but to stage dharna before the various ministries in the capital. They cannot but conclude that this indifferent treatment has been meted out to them because they are just aam aadmi.

The issue acquires significance because this was not an isolated incident. Over the last few years, Somali pirates have repeatedly attacked seafarers and have indulged in wanton violation of international law. Nearly one hundred and fifty hostages, Indians disproportionately more than the rest, are still languishing in the captivity of the pirates. The shipping companies that employ them tend to wash their hands off the hostage situation. The hostages and their family members feel disowned by their employer and their state.

We demand that the Government must take immediate remedial actions to help the victims and their families. It must consider all measures, including direct intervention, to safeguard the lives of these Indian citizens. The government must also reinforce our naval presence in the western Indian ocean, ensure that the employers' take responsibility for any hostage situation for their employees and that there is international collaboration to face up to this menace. We assure the hostages and their family members that in this trying moment the aam aadmi of this country stands with them.

Arvind Kejriwal National Convener Aam Aadmi Party

A‐119, Ground Floor, Kaushambi, Ghaziabad, UP‐201010 | Ph: 09718 500 606