Kanpur Mourns Merchant Navy Officer Killed in Ukraine

Merchant Navy officer Sagar Gupta, who tragically died in a drone attack while serving at sea in Ukraine, had his mortal remains arrive at his Kanpur residence on Wednesday evening. His arrival was met with profound grief as family members and neighbours gathered to pay their final respects.

Gupta's wife and mother were inconsolable, with other relatives also deeply affected. His elder brother, Manish Gupta, referred to Sagar as a martyr and personally procured a tricolour flag to drape over the coffin after the government did not provide one.

The family has formally requested martyr status for Sagar, a compensation of ₹2 crore, and a government job for his wife. They have indicated that the last rites will not proceed until these demands are addressed. The body has been preserved in a deep freezer pending resolution.

Sagar Gupta, a Chief Officer, was employed by Avon Navigators Marines Private Limited. His remains were transported from Moscow to New Delhi via air ambulance, and subsequently brought to Kanpur by his brother and brother-in-law.

Sagar is survived by his wife, two young children, mother, and elder brother's family.