Notwithstanding anything contained in [section 29 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973,] it shall be lawful for a [Metropolitan Magistrate or a Judicial Magistrate of the first class] [ Substituted by Act 69 of 1976, Section 2, for " unberthed passengers" (w.e.f. 1.12.1976).] to pass any sentence authorised by or under this Act on any person convicted of an offence under this Act or any rule or regulation thereunder.
