Forbes Forbes Campbell & Co. Ltd vs Board Of Trustees, Port Of Bombay

The Supreme Court addressed the liability of a Steamer Agent to pay demurrage and port charges under the Major Port Trust Act, 1963, specifically referencing Section 2(o) which defines 'Owner'. The Court held that the Steamer Agent is not liable for charges as the statutory provisions do not impose such liability on agents of ship owners. The High Court's ruling was reversed, establishing that the relationship between the consignee and the Port Trust is that of bailor and bailee, thus absolving the Steamer Agent of financial responsibility for the charges incurred.