The Orissa High Court in India has mandated the repatriation of 23 seafarers from the detained tanker, Unity, recognizing them as abandoned. The vessel’s master and crew have been stranded at Paradip following its arrest due to three admiralty cases. The court found that the ship’s owner had neglected to pay wages, provide necessary supplies, or facilitate crew changes and repatriation. In response, the ship’s Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurer stepped in to supply provisions and settle outstanding wages.
In its recent ruling, the court stated that the situation met the abandonment criteria outlined in India’s Merchant Shipping Act, 2025. It also referenced the Maritime Labour Convention, which establishes guidelines for the repatriation of abandoned crews. The court has instructed Indian authorities to ensure the crew’s disembarkation and repatriation while also arranging for a replacement crew for the tanker.
The court emphasized the urgency of these measures, recommending that they be completed within three weeks of the judgment’s issuance. The costs incurred for these actions can be reclaimed from the shipowner or any other responsible parties involved.
