The MERCHANT SHIPPING ACT, 1958

SEAMEN AND APPRENTICES

Section 204: Deserters not to be harboured.

No person shall harbour or secrete a seaman or, apprentice who has wilfully neglected or refused to join or has deserted from his ship, knowing or having reason to believe the seaman or apprentice to have so done. Provided that the provisions of this section shall not extend to the case in which the harbour or secreting is by the spouse of the seaman or apprentice.