Lok Sabha Passes SHANTI Bill Amid Liability Concerns
The Lok Sabha on Wednesday cleared the SHANTI Bill, a key piece of legislation aimed at restructuring India’s nuclear energy framework, amid sustained opposition criticism over its liability provisions. The bill was passed after a debate in which several opposition members raised concerns about safety, accountability and the dilution of existing safeguards in case of nuclear accidents.
What the SHANTI Bill Seeks to Do
The SHANTI Bill proposes changes to India’s nuclear governance structure to allow greater participation by private companies in nuclear power generation. Until now, the sector has largely remained under government control. The government has argued that opening the sector is necessary to attract investment, improve technology access and accelerate the expansion of clean energy capacity to meet future power demand.
Debate Over Liability Provisions
A major point of contention during the debate was the liability framework. Opposition MPs argued that the bill weakens provisions that held suppliers and operators accountable in the event of nuclear damage. They warned that reducing liability obligations could compromise public safety and shift risks onto citizens. The government, however, maintained that the revised framework aligns India’s nuclear policy with international practices and would make projects more commercially viable.
Political Response and Way Ahead
Opposition parties demanded that the bill be referred to a parliamentary committee for further scrutiny, citing the long-term safety implications. The government rejected the demand, stating that safeguards remain intact and regulatory oversight would continue. With passage in the Lok Sabha, the SHANTI Bill will now move to the Rajya Sabha for consideration.
