[Advice Needed] Company forcing sign-off without clearing 2 months unpaid wages (May & June). Master & CE don't care.
Hi everyone, I’m looking for some advice from anyone who has dealt with a similar situation.
I’m currently serving as a 3rd Engineer on the MT Bheem (Indian Flag) tug vessel doing harbour operations , and we are presently at port in Agalega, Mauritius. My contract is up, my sign-off is confirmed, and the company has already finalized all the details and arrangements for my relief (the on-signer is ready).
Here is the massive problem: My wages for May 2026 and June 2026 are still completely unpaid.
The management is flat-out refusing to process my final settlement at the time of sign-off. They are trying to force me to disembark and fly home without 2 months of pay, hiding behind vague excuses about "internal processing delays" with zero proof of payment or a firm timeline.
To make matters worse, the Captain and Chief Engineer absolutely do not care. They have completely washed their hands of the situation, offering zero support or intervention with the office on my behalf. I am entirely on my own onboard.
This situation is causing me severe financial stress because I have obligations back home that I can't meet, and the constant back-and-forth and lack of support from my seniors is seriously taking a toll on my mental health.
Here is what I’ve done so far:
1 I have categorically told the Master, CE, and management that I will NOT sign off or disembark until my full settlement reflects in my bank account.
2 Since we are an Indian flag vessel, I filed a formal grievance with the DGS (Directorate General of Shipping, India) on their eNavik portal. However, the status has been stuck on "QUERY_RAISED" for over a week with no action.
3 I reached out to the global ITF channels via email and WhatsApp over a week ago, but I haven't received a single reply.
My questions for the community:
Has anyone successfully stood their ground and refused disembarkation until paid, especially when the Master and CE are unsupportive? How did the company react?
Is there a better way to get the ITF’s immediate attention when the central office ignores you?
Is there any chance DGS will take action to resolve my issue before sign off which is due in 1 week.
Any advice or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated. Stay safe out there.