ompliant/grievance redressal mechanism

1. On-Board Complaint/Grievance Redressal Mechanism

Indian flag vessels must adopt the following procedures for handling seafarer complaints/grievances alleging breaches of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC).

• Step 1: Seafarer submits written complaint to Head of Department (HoD). HoD acknowledges receipt.
• Step 2: If HoD cannot resolve the complaint within 3 days, it's referred to the Master. Master settles the issue within 7 days.
• Step 3: Seafarer has the right to be accompanied and represented by another seafarer during the complaint process.
• Step 4: All complaints and decisions are recorded and kept on board for at least 3 years.
• Step 5: If Master cannot resolve the complaint, it's taken up with the shipowner, who resolves it within 1 month.
• Step 6: If not resolved by shipowner, seafarer can approach the competent authority through the Grievance Redressal Mechanism (DG Shipping).

2. Complaints at Foreign Ports and Direct Filing

Seafarers can also report complaints to authorized officers at foreign ports or file complaints directly with the Master, RPS provider, shipowner, or other appropriate entities.