Maritime Law in India: Admiralty Jurisdiction and Shipping Disputes
With major ports like Mumbai and a significant shipping industry, maritime law is a specialized and vital
practice area in India.
What is Maritime/Admiralty Law?
Admiralty and maritime law governs:
- Shipping contracts and bills of lading
- Cargo claims and disputes
- Ship arrests and liens
- Marine insurance
- Collision and salvage
- Port and harbor regulations
Key Maritime Legislation in India
- Admiralty (Jurisdiction and Settlement of Maritime Claims) Act, 2017: Primary admiralty law
- Merchant Shipping Act, 1958: Registration and regulation
- Carriage of Goods by Sea Act: Cargo liability
- Major Port Trusts Act: Port governance
Common Maritime Disputes
Cargo Claims
Damage, shortage, or loss of cargo during shipping. Time limits are strict — usually 1 year from delivery.
Ship Arrest
Maritime creditors can arrest ships in India for various claims including bunker supplies, repairs, and wages.
Charter Party Disputes
Disputes between ship owners and charterers over hire, off-hire, and performance.
Maritime Legal Services
Sarosh Damania & Co. provides maritime law expertise:
- Ship arrest and release
- Cargo claims
- Admiralty litigation in Bombay High Court
- Maritime arbitration
Frequently Asked Questions
Which court handles admiralty matters in India?
High Courts at Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Gujarat, Kerala, Hyderabad, and Odisha have admiralty jurisdiction. The
Bombay High Court is particularly active in admiralty matters.
How quickly can a ship be arrested in India?
With proper documentation, ship arrest orders can be obtained within 24-48 hours in urgent cases.
