The Ministry of Commerce & Industry has recently introduced the Boilers Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha, marking a significant step towards updating India’s boiler safety laws. This bill, which seeks to replace the Boilers Act, 1923, reflects the government’s commitment to modernizing outdated regulations and enhancing the safety of both workers and equipment. It was first passed by the Rajya Sabha on December 4, 2024, and is now awaiting approval from the Lok Sabha before it moves for assent by the President of India.
This new legislation comes at a time when India is celebrating the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, commemorating 75 years of independence. The introduction of such forward-looking bills is a reminder of the progress and modernization India continues to pursue as it steps into its future.
What Does the Boilers Bill, 2024 Offer?
The primary objective of the Boilers Bill, 2024 is to improve upon the existing Boilers Act, 1923, which had become outdated and inadequate in addressing modern industry needs. The new bill focuses on ensuring the safety of workers while using boilers and promotes a more business-friendly environment by removing obsolete provisions. Here are some of the key highlights:
- Decriminalization of Offences
One of the most significant changes brought about by the new bill is the decriminalization of several offences. Under the 1923 Act, many non-severe offences were criminalized, which posed unnecessary hurdles for businesses, especially those in the MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) sector. The new bill decriminalizes three out of the seven offences, allowing for a more straightforward fiscal penalty system rather than resorting to criminal penalties for minor infractions. This is in line with the government’s larger efforts under the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023, which seeks to ease the regulatory burden on businesses.
- Streamlined Administrative Procedures
The bill is designed to enhance the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in India. The provisions have been carefully restructured to group similar regulations together, making them easier to navigate. It provides clearer powers and functions for the Central Government, State Governments, and the Central Boilers Board, thus reducing confusion and ensuring greater efficiency.
- Enhanced Safety Provisions
Worker safety has been a key focus of the new bill. It includes provisions that mandate the repair and maintenance of boilers only by qualified and competent personnel, significantly reducing risks associated with unsafe equipment. Additionally, the bill retains criminal penalties for offences that pose a substantial risk to human life or property, ensuring that the primary objective of safety is not compromised.
- Removal of Obsolete Provisions
In line with the government’s broader efforts to review and repeal outdated laws, the new bill removes obsolete provisions from the original Boilers Act. These changes not only streamline the regulatory framework but also ensure that the law reflects current technological and industrial practices.
A Future-Oriented Legislation
The introduction of the Boilers Bill, 2024 signifies a shift towards a more modern, pragmatic approach to industrial safety. By removing outdated provisions, simplifying administrative processes, and prioritizing safety and ease of doing business, this bill is poised to serve as a cornerstone for India’s industrial growth in the years to come.
As India continues to push for reform in various sectors, the Boilers Bill stands as a symbol of the country’s commitment to progress, aligning with the spirit of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, which honors the nation’s strides towards a safer and more efficient future.
With the bill moving forward in Parliament, it is expected to be passed and come into force, further aligning India’s legal framework with global standards and enhancing the trust of industry stakeholders in the country’s regulatory environment.
