The Maritime Anti-Piracy Act, 2022
The Maritime Anti-Piracy Act, 2022
Defence202215 sections
The Maritime Anti-Piracy Act, 2022, regulates criminal acts of piracy, including hijackings and robbery, committed on the high seas. It applies to any individual arrested by Indian forces, regardless of their nationality, as well as Indian citizens and stateless persons. This law matters because it gives India the legal authority to prosecute sea pirates in specialized domestic courts, prescribing harsh penalties like life imprisonment or death. By providing a clear legal framework for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard to arrest suspects and seize vessels, the act strengthens maritime security and helps India combat international crime on global waters.
- 1. Short title, commencement and application.
- 2. Definitions.
- 3. Punishment for piracy.
- 4. Punishment for attempt to commit piracy, etc.
- 5. Punishment for organising or directing others to participate in an act of piracy.
- 6. Conferment of power of arrest, investigation, etc.
- 7. Arrest of persons and seizure of ship and property.
- 8. Designated Court.
- 9. Jurisdiction of Designated Court.
- 10. Trial of offences by Designated Court.
- 11. Presumption.
- 12. Provisions as to bail.
- 13. Application of Code in proceedings before Designated Court.
- 14. Provision as to extradition.
- 15. Protection of action taken in good faith.
PDF: pending for this language.