Kochi: In a high-stakes legal standoff, global shipping giant MSC has told the Kerala High Court that it cannot afford the massive ₹9,531 crore compensation sought by the state government over a recent ship accident off the Kerala coast. Calling the amount “beyond its financial means,” the company pushed back against the government’s demand.
The compensation was claimed through an admiralty suit filed by the state, citing severe environmental destruction, long-term damage to the marine ecosystem, and substantial loss to fisherfolk and coastal communities due to the vessel’s sinking. The government warned that the aftereffects of the disaster will haunt the region for years.
In response, the High Court has directed MSC to disclose a realistic amount it can deposit. The case has been adjourned to August 6 for further proceedings.
Earlier, the court had ordered the arrest of MSC’s vessel “MSC Aquitaine” after it docked at Vizhinjam port. That arrest order remains in effect until the case is resolved.
