INVESTIGATIONS INTO CASUALTIESCentral

Section 44 of The inland vessels act, 1917

(1)Whenever any explosion occurs on board any inland 1[mechanically propelled vessel], the State Government may direct that an investigation into the cause of the explosion be made by such person or persons as it may appoint in this behalf.
(2)The person or persons so appointed may, for the purpose of the investigation, enter into and upon the 1[mechanically propelled vessel], with all necessary workmen and labourers, and remove any portion of the 1[mechanically propelled vessel] or of the machinery thereof, and shall report to the State Government what, in his or their opinion, was the cause of the explosion.
(3)Every person making an investigation under this section shall be deemed to be a public servant within the meaning of the Indian Penal Code (45 of 1860).

Summary

The State Government can order a formal investigation into any explosion on a boat.
Appointed investigators have the right to enter and inspect the vessel and its machinery.
Investigators can physically remove parts of the boat or its engines to find the cause of the blast.
A report on the likely cause of the explosion must be submitted to the State Government.
People carrying out these investigations are legally treated as public servants.

Practical examples

1When a boiler bursts on a river boat in July 2024, the Government appoints Engineer Sonia to board the ship and take the valve for testing.

2After a mysterious engine fire in May 2025, an investigator enters the ship with two laborers to cut out a section of the fuel line for analysis.

FAQ

1. Can an investigator take parts of a boat under Section 44 of The inland vessels act, 1917?

Yes, Section 44 of The inland vessels act, 1917, allows investigators to remove any portion of the vessel or its machinery to determine the cause of an explosion.

2. Who has the power to order an explosion probe under Section 44 of The inland vessels act, 1917?

The State Government has the authority to direct an investigation into explosions under Section 44 of The inland vessels act, 1917.

3. What is the legal status of an investigator under Section 44 of The inland vessels act, 1917?

Every person making an investigation under Section 44 of The inland vessels act, 1917, is deemed to be a public servant under the Indian Penal Code.

Test yourself

Q1.Under Section 44 of The inland vessels act, 1917, what specific action can an investigator take to find the cause of an explosion?

Q2.What is required of an investigator after examining a vessel under Section 44 of The inland vessels act, 1917?

Q3.Under Section 44 of The inland vessels act, 1917, who can the investigator bring onto the vessel?

Q4.According to Section 44 of The inland vessels act, 1917, what defines the legal status of the investigator?

43PreviousSection 43 Court to exercise its powers independently of the assessors.44ANextSection 44A Raising of or removal of wreck impeding navigation, etc.

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