Regulating Movement of Indian Sailing vessels (ISVs) (Dhows) Security Issue

X X   X X   Extracts   X X   X X

→ Full Text of the Document

X X   X X   Extracts   X X   X X

..... Imm.dated 18.02.2021 (copy enclosed), on the above mentioned subject. 2. As may be seen, the MHA reiterates that as per the existing legal framework, a vessel on International voyage should neither depart from nor attempt to enter into India through any point or place other than designated Immigration Check Posts. Further, it is apprehended that Indian Sailing Vessels (ISVs)/Dhows proceeding on International voyages from certain non-designated Immigration Check Posts (ICPs) of Gujarat have obtained clearances from MMD, Customs and Marine Police. 3. In the wake of the likely involvement of these vessels in narco smuggling, human smuggling etc., the MHA has intimated that Customs authorities should refrain from issuing clearances to these v .....

X X   X X   Extracts   X X   X X

→ Full Text of the Document

X X   X X   Extracts   X X   X X

..... rom any place outside India shall enter, or attempt to enter, India by water, land or air - (a) unless he is in possession of a valid passport conforming to the conditions prescribed in Rule 5, and, (b) except through such port (including an airport) or other place as may be specified in this behalf by Central Government, and ports or other places specified under clause (a) of sub-paragraph (1) of paragraph 3 of the Foreigners Order, 1948, shall be deemed to have been so specified. (ii) Hence as per the existing legal frame work, a vessel on International voyage should neither depart from or attempt to enter India from Check posts which are not designated for international travel by the Government of India and contravention of the same w .....

X X   X X   Extracts   X X   X X

→ Full Text of the Document

X X   X X   Extracts   X X   X X

..... illing of security' requirements before proceeding on International Voyage rests with the DG Shipping for which the matter needs to be addressed to the Ministry of Shipping. Necessary instructions should also be issued to the Customs authorities to refrain from issuing clearances to, these vessels from non-designated seaports ICPs. (v) In the wake of the likely involvement of these vessels in narcosmuggling, human smuggling etc., it is viewed that the ISVs should not be permitted to undertake International travel from check posts which are not designated by Government of India where Immigration authorities are not functional. Vessels indulging in such practices should be penalized as per the existing laws which would serve as a deterrent t .....

X X   X X   Extracts   X X   X X

→ Full Text of the Document

X X   X X   Extracts   X X   X X