In recent news, the Indian government is planning to introduce the Draft Explosives Bill, 2024, aiming to replace the outdated Explosives Act, 1884. This proposed legislation seeks to enhance safety, streamline licensing procedures, and impose stricter penalties for violations related to explosives. Let’s delve into the key provisions and historical context of this significant bill.
Key Provisions of the Explosives Bill, 2024
- Designation of Licensing Authority:
- Under the proposed bill, the Union government will designate the authority responsible for granting, suspending, or revoking licenses related to explosives.
- Currently, the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) operates under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and handles licensing matters.
- Enhanced Fines and Penalties:
- Licensees found violating regulations (such as engaging in manufacturing, importing, or exporting explosives) may face:
- Imprisonment for up to three years.
- A fine of ₹1,00,000 (an increase from the current ₹50,000 fine under the Explosives Act).
- Licensees found violating regulations (such as engaging in manufacturing, importing, or exporting explosives) may face:
- Regulatory Oversight and Compliance:
- The licensing authority will specify in the license the quantity of explosives a licensee can:
- Manufacture
- Possess
- Sell
- Transport
- Import
- Export
- Stringent oversight aims to ensure compliance with safety regulations and prevent unauthorized or unsafe handling of explosives.
- The licensing authority will specify in the license the quantity of explosives a licensee can:
Historical Background: The Explosives Act, 1884
- Enacted during British colonial rule in India, the Explosives Act of 1884 regulated various aspects related to explosives.
- Over the years, the Act has been amended to address emerging challenges and update safety standards based on technological advancements.
The proposed Explosives Bill, 2024 represents a crucial step toward modernizing regulations, safeguarding public safety, and preventing mishandling of volatile materials. As India moves forward, this legislation will play a pivotal role in ensuring responsible use and handling of explosives.
View More Sources
(1) Draft Explosives Bill, 2024 – GKToday. https://www.gktoday.in/draft-explosives-bill-2024/.
(2) Govt proposes new explosives law, to repeal old act | Business. https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/business/2923174-govt-proposes-new-explosives-law-to-repeal-old-act.
(3) Govt Proposes New Explosives Law, To Repeal Old Act. https://www.dailyexcelsior.com/govt-proposes-new-explosives-law-to-repeal-old-act/.
(4) Government proposes new explosives law, to repeal old act – Deccan Herald. https://www.deccanherald.com/india/government-proposes-new-explosives-law-to-repeal-old-act-3002193.
(5) Govt introduces draft Explosives Bill 2024 to replace Explosives Act …. https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/govt-introduces-draft-explosives-bill-2024-to-replace-explosives-act-1884-124050100148_1.html.
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