Section 304
Power of Central Government with respect to vessel without nationality.
The Merchant Shipping Act, 2025
About this Act
An Act to consolidate and amend the law relating to merchant shipping to ensure compliance with India's obligation under the maritime treaties and international instruments to which India is a party and also to ensure the development of Indian shipping and efficient maintenance of Indian mercantile marine in a manner best suited to serve the national interest and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.
(1) Where it is established that a vessel within India or her coastal waters is not legally entitled to fly the flag of a State or has lost such right, the Central Government may take charge of such vessel and detain the same as a vessel without nationality including its cargo, as may be deemed appropriate, in such manner as may be prescribed.
(2) A vessel which sails under the flags of two or more States, using them according to convenience, may be deemed to be a vessel without nationality.
(2) A vessel which sails under the flags of two or more States, using them according to convenience, may be deemed to be a vessel without nationality.