Liability to pay demurrage is on importer, irrespective of reason for seizure /detention of goods

Global Impex Vs Manager, Celebi Import Shed And Anr. (Delhi High Court) (i) The custodian has a lien over the imported goods, consigned to its custody. This lien may be statutory, as provided under the IAA Act, all the Major Port Trusts Acts, or contractual. It may also be relatable to Sections 170 and 171 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872. (ii) This lien entitles the custodian to retain hold of the goods, consigned to its custody, till all its dues, including ground rent and demurrage, are paid. (iii) The Customs authorities have no power, or the jurisdiction, to issue any instruction, to the ...