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Section 165 — Deserter concealed on board merchant vessel through negligence of master
165
165
Deserter concealed on board merchant vessel through negligence of master
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter VIII Of Offences Relating to The Army, Navy and Air Force
⚖️
Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
Military OffenceNegligenceMerchant VesselInfo
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 165 of the BNS deals with a merchant ship's captain if a deserter is hiding on their ship. If the captain should have known about the deserter but didn't because of negligence, they can be penalized. This section replaces the old Section of IPC.
Why does this law exist? This law ensures that merchant ship captains are responsible for what happens on their ships. It helps prevent deserters from escaping and maintains discipline.
Real-life impact This law makes sure ship captains are careful about who is on their ships. It helps prevent deserters from fleeing the country. This supports national security.
What happens if you break this law? If you are a ship captain and a deserter is found on your ship due to your negligence, you could be fined up to three thousand rupees. The police can investigate.
⚖️ Punishment

Fine up to three thousand rupees.

💡 Real Life Example

The captain of a merchant ship didn't check the ship properly, and a deserter hid on board. The captain is liable under this section. He faces a fine of up to three thousand rupees.

The person in charge of a cargo ship failed to maintain proper discipline, and a deserter was concealed. The person in charge is also liable. They face the same penalty.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Seek legal advice if accused.
  • •Cooperate with the investigation.
  • •Gather evidence to support your defense.
  • •Remember your right to legal aid.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 165 of the BNS addresses the responsibility of a merchant vessel's captain if a deserter from the armed forces is found concealed on their ship. If the captain was negligent and should have known about the deserter, they can be penalized. This section replaces the old law in the IPC.
If you break Section 165 of the BNS, you could face a fine of up to three thousand rupees. The severity of the punishment depends on the details of the case. The police can investigate.
Sources & References

📒 Legal text sourced from The Gazette of India & AdvocateKhoj Bare Acts Library

⚖️ Content reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate, with 31 years of legal practice

📚 Act Reference: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (replaces IPC)

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified advocate for specific legal matters.

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