The Indian Navy has initiated court-martial proceedings against two officers over alleged lapses linked to the partial capsizing of the guided-missile frigate INS Brahmaputra during repair work in Mumbai in July 2024. The proceedings began in Mumbai on 12 October 2026, according to officials cited by Hindustan Times.
The officers facing the military trial are the warship’s commanding officer, a captain, and its officer of the day, a lieutenant commander. The captain has been charged with, among other allegations, “hazarding an Indian Navy ship” and negligence in the performance of his duties. The lieutenant commander faces a negligence charge. In naval terminology, hazarding refers to putting a ship in danger.
Charges follow fire during repair work
INS Brahmaputra tipped on its side at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai after a fire broke out aboard the vessel while it was undergoing repairs. Firefighting teams pumped large quantities of water into the frigate to control the blaze. The incident led to the death of Leading Seaman Sitendra Singh, who was involved in repair work and drowned after entering the water.
Most personnel left the ship through the gangway, while some jumped into the water and swam to safety, Hindustan Times reported. The incident raised questions about operational oversight and compliance with safety procedures. The court martial is intended to examine the alleged conduct of the two officers; the charges are not findings of guilt.
| Officer | Rank | Charges reported |
|---|---|---|
| Commanding officer | Captain | Hazarding an Indian Navy ship and negligence |
| Officer of the day | Lieutenant commander | Negligence |
Frigate remains out of service
Built by Kolkata-based Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited, INS Brahmaputra was commissioned into the Indian Navy in April 2000. The 3,850-tonne ship has a crew of 370, including 40 officers. Its damage was severe enough to raise doubts about whether the frigate could return to service.
An official cited by Hindustan Times said the warship has been repaired and is undergoing trials. The frigate is expected to become seaworthy sometime next year, the official said. That timeline remains subject to the completion of trials and does not amount to a declaration that the ship has returned to operational service.
Possible penalties under military law
If convicted, the officers could face penalties ranging from a reprimand and loss of seniority to imprisonment of up to two years, according to the report. The proceedings will determine whether the alleged failures meet the charges brought against them. Until the military court reaches a decision, the officers remain entitled to the applicable legal process and the allegations must not be treated as established wrongdoing.
