LABOUR REGULATION IN THE MARITIME SECTOR IN INDIA

AUTHOR – ANGELINA BLESSY J, STUDENT AT SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE IN LAW, TNDALU

BEST CITATION – ANGELINA BLESSY J, LABOUR REGULATION IN THE MARITIME SECTOR IN INDIA, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (5) OF 2025, PG. 220-224, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344

Abstract:

The maritime industry, a sector vital to global trade is often marked by legal ambiguity and worker exploitation. This article examines the diverse categories of maritime labour—including seafarers, dockworkers, offshore energy workers, and fishers—and the risks they face, such as poor working conditions, wage theft, and mental health issues. The Indian legal framework, while aligned with international conventions like the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006, suffers from weak enforcement and fragmented oversight. The use of Flags of Convenience (FOC) further complicates jurisdictional accountability, making it difficult for workers to seek justice. The article also reviews the role of international bodies such as the IMO and ILO in setting standards and supporting seafarers. Real-world case studies highlight the failure of authorities to protect Indian maritime workers abandoned in foreign ports. The article concludes with policy recommendations including tighter regulation of manning agents, port welfare desks, gender inclusion, and legal harmonisation. Ultimately, it calls for stronger coordination between domestic and international stakeholders to safeguard the rights and dignity of maritime workers.

Keywords: Maritime industry, labour, challenges, law.