The Government of Andhra Pradesh has introduced The Andhra Pradesh Boiler Penalty Adjudication and Appeal Rules, 2025, aiming to improve the enforcement and adjudication process under the Boilers Act, 1923. The new rules, notified on March 13, 2025, will come into effect immediately and provide a clear framework for handling boiler-related offenses in the state.
Key Features of the New Boiler Penalty Adjudication and Appeal Rules, 2025:
The new rules are officially titled The Andhra Pradesh Boiler Penalty Adjudication and Appeal Rules, 2025 and will be effective from the date of publication in the Andhra Pradesh Gazette.
Adjudication Process: Clear Steps for Enforcement
The rules detail the adjudication process for boiler offenses:
- Inspection Report: If an inspector identifies a violation of the Boiler Act, the Director of Boilers will review the case and determine if a penalty is warranted.
- Filing for Adjudication: If a contravention is found, the Inspector will file an application for adjudication with the Adjudicating Officer.
- Notice and Hearing: The Adjudicating Officer will issue a notice to the owner and schedule a hearing, where the owner can present their case.
- Penalty Imposition: If the owner is found guilty of violating the act, a penalty will be imposed, and the fine will be paid via online challan at the AP CFMS website.
Appeal Process: Avenues for Challenging the Decision
The new rules provide a structured procedure for appeals:
- Filing an Appeal: Owners can file an appeal against the adjudication order within 60 days of receiving the decision. If they miss this deadline, an appeal can still be considered if valid reasons are provided.
- Appeal Documents: The appeal must include the original adjudication order, a clear statement of facts, and the grounds for appeal.
- Appellate Authority’s Role: Once an appeal is filed, the Appellate Authority will review the case and issue a decision, which could confirm, modify, or set aside the original order.
- Order Communication: After the decision, the Appellate Authority will communicate the order to both the Adjudicating Officer and the concerned parties.
Clear Procedures for Notice and Order Service
The rules specify how notices or orders related to adjudication will be served to the concerned parties. These can be delivered by hand, registered post, or affixed at the premises if other methods fail.
Why This Matters
The introduction of these new rules represents a significant step toward improving the enforcement of boiler safety regulations in Andhra Pradesh. By providing a clear process for adjudication and appeal, the state aims to ensure that violations of the Boiler Act are dealt with efficiently and fairly.
The new rules will help boiler owners, inspectors, and the Adjudicating Authority to navigate the legal process with more clarity and consistency. They also offer greater transparency in how penalties are imposed, as well as a clear path for appealing decisions.
Effective Date : March 13 , 2025
