The Bombay High Court has ordered the release of 50 Indian seafarers stranded aboard the MV Atlantic Hope vessel off the coast of Mumbai for over five months. The court strongly criticized the vessel owners, M/s Global Ship Management, for their inhumane treatment of the crew, stating they were treated “worse than pets.”
The seafarers had been stuck since August 2023, initially due to a technical issue with the ship, and subsequently because the owners failed to provide adequate funds for their repatriation or address their basic needs. The court highlighted reports of insufficient food, potable water, and medical supplies, alongside a lack of communication and disregard for the crew’s well-being.
A division bench of Justices S.V. Gangapurwala and Sandeep Marne took suo motu cognizance of the matter after receiving a petition from the seafarers’ families. The court noted the owners’ consistent failure to comply with previous directives regarding the crew’s welfare.
The court directed the owners to immediately arrange for the seafarers’ disembarkation and repatriation at their expense. It also ordered the payment of outstanding wages and compensation for the period of their forced confinement. The owners were further directed to deposit ₹25 lakh with the Bombay High Court Legal Services Committee to cover any unforeseen expenses related to the seafarers’ well-being.
The judges expressed severe displeasure with the owners’ conduct, emphasizing the fundamental rights of seafarers and the responsibilities of ship owners to ensure their safety, health, and fair treatment. The court’s order underscores the importance of adhering to international maritime laws and conventions concerning seafarers’ rights. The court also directed the authorities to investigate the matter and take appropriate action against the ship owners for violating the rights of the seafarers.
