BNS Section 165 – Deserter concealed on board merchant vessel through negligence of master

IPC Section – 137

Deserter concealed on board merchant vessel through negligence of master.

Deserter Concealed on Board Merchant Vessel Through Negligence of Master (BNS-165)

1. What is the Offence?

This law holds the master or person in charge of a merchant vessel accountable if a deserter from the Army, Navy, or Air Force is concealed on board, even if the master was ignorant of the concealment.

• Liability arises if the master could have known about the deserter but failed due to:
  1. Neglect of duty (failing to fulfill responsibilities as a master).
  2. Lack of discipline on the vessel.

2. Key Elements of the Offence

• Concealment: Hiding a military deserter on the vessel.
• Applicable Individuals: The master or person in charge of the merchant vessel.
• Scope of Liability: The master is liable even if unaware of the deserter’s presence, provided their negligence or poor discipline allowed the concealment.
• Military Context: The law aims to uphold military discipline by ensuring accountability in transport vessels.

3. Punishment

• Fine: Up to ₹3,000.
• No imprisonment is prescribed under this section.

4. Type of Offence

• Non-cognizable: Police cannot arrest without a warrant.
• Bailable: The accused can claim bail as a right.
• Court: The case will be tried by any Magistrate.

5. Purpose of the Law

• To enforce responsibility on vessel masters to maintain discipline and prevent concealment of deserters.
• It ensures that negligence in managing a vessel does not facilitate the evasion of military duties.

Summary of the Offence