Lok Sabha Passes Merchant Shipping Bill Amid Oppositional Protests

The Lok Sabha has successfully passed the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024, which aims to broaden the eligibility criteria for merchant vessel ownership and establish protocols for marine casualty investigations. This legislative action came amid continued protests by the Opposition, who demanded discussions on election roll revisions in Bihar.

Following Union Minister Sarbnanda Sonowal's remarks, BJP members Captain Brijesh Chowta and Mukeshkumar Chandrakant Dalal voiced support for the bill, despite ongoing objections from opposition parties. The bill was eventually passed by voice vote, marking it as the second legislative approval during the current Monsoon session, which has been marred by repeated disruptions.

The new bill, set to replace the Merchant Shipping Act of 1958, empowers the central government to detain vessels devoid of nationality within Indian territories. It also outlines maritime liabilities and compensation parameters related to vessel collisions and accidents, reflecting the evolving needs of India's maritime sector.

(With inputs from agencies.)