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HC orders release of 50 seafarers stranded on 3 ships off Mumbai coast for 3 months
The Bombay High Court ordered the release of around 50 Indian seafarers who were stranded on three ships off Mumbai since February after alleged unauthorised ship-to-ship transfers. The court criticised the ship owners for prioritising money over human life and directed authorities to complete sign-off, disembarkation, and repatriation. The decision came after a habeas corpus petition filed by seven seafarers earlier in April.
Why It Matters
This ruling highlights humanitarian concerns for seafarers and sets a judicial response to ensure crew welfare, potentially shaping how similar cases are handled in the future.
Timeline
4 Events
Bombay High Court orders release of around 50 seafarers and directs police action
May 5, 2026
A division bench of justices Ravindra V Ghuge and Hiten S Venegavkar allowed the plea and ordered the release of around 50 Indian seafarers from the three vessels. The court criticised the owners for prioritising money over human life, refused to delay the release when owners sought time to arrange replacement crew, and directed the Yellow Gate police station to complete the formalities and facilitate sign-off, disembarkation, and repatriation.
Mandal's daughter's wedding alongside communication restrictions noted
April 25, 2026
Nasiruddin Mujibar Rahaman Mandal, one of the seafarers, said his daughter married on April 25, 2026, during the period of investigation. He noted restricted communication with families due to limited generator power and charging constraints for mobile phones.
Seven seafarers file habeas corpus petition in Bombay High Court
April 22, 2026
Seven stranded seafarers filed a habeas corpus petition in the Bombay High Court challenging their unlawful confinement for nearly three months, describing the conditions as extreme and dehumanising and seeking discharge, sign-off, disembarkation, and repatriation.
Coast Guard intercepts three ships off Mumbai coast and seafarers stranded
February 4, 2026
The Indian Coast Guard intercepted MT Asphalt Star, MT Stellar Ruby, and MT Al Jafzia off Mumbai on February 4 after they were allegedly found to be engaged in unauthorised ship-to-ship transfer operations. Following the interception, the ships’ owners reportedly abandoned the vessels, leaving around 50 Indian crew members stranded for more than three months with limited food and water.