Section Text
1) The Central Government may impose the punishment of forfeiture of time or seniority of not more than twelve months on47[any officer below the rank of commander].
(2) The Chief of the Naval Staff may impose the punishment of forfeiture of time or seniority of not more than six months on a [any officer below the rank of commander]. 48[(2A) The Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of a naval command may, subject to regulations made under this Act, impose on any officer below the rank of commander one or more of the following punishments, namely :-
(a) forfeiture of seniority in rank of not more than three months;
(b) forfeiture of time for promotion of not more than three months;
(c) severe reprimand or reprimand.]
(3) The commanding officer of a ship may subject to regulations made under this Act, impose the punishment of forfeiture of time or seniority of not more than three months on any subordinate officer.
(4) In imposing punishments under sub-sections (1)49[, (2) and (2A)], it shall not be necessary for the Central Government or the Chief of the Naval Staff, as the case may be, to hear the accused in person or by any friend or counsel. 50[(5) The commanding officer of ae [ship] or the officer-in-charge of a naval academy may impose on any subordinate officer whilst under training such minor punishments, not higher than the punishment of severe reprimand or reprimand, as may, from time to time, be prescribed.]