Indian Penal Code, 1860
Section 438
repealedPunishment for the mischief described in section 437 committed by fire or explosive substance
Whoever commits, or attempts to commit, by fire or any explosive substance, such mischief as is described in the last preceding section. shall be punished with imprisonment for life. or with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.
Why this exists
Just as fire and explosives make ordinary mischief more dangerous, they make attacks on ships especially catastrophic, since a fire or blast on board can kill crew and passengers, spread rapidly, and make rescue difficult. This section escalates the punishment under section 437 specifically when these more lethal methods are used.