Amid the din created by the Opposition, which was insisting on a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025. The bill, introduced by the Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, saw a voice vote. But the House was shortly thereafter adjourned until morning on Thursday, and that session was concluded in less than thirty minutes.
Dated August 9, 2024, was proposed as replacement legislation to the century-old Indian Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925, and presented initially to the Lok Sabha. The proposed act is meant to transform the maritime laws of India that have been historically based on the rules during the colonial period. The Shipping Ministry explains that the bill provides a definition of the responsibilities, rights, liabilities, and immunities of parties engaged in the carriage of goods by sea between ports in India or between an Indian port and a foreign port.
Through modernization of these regulations, the bill is likely to smooth the way in which maritime trade is done, as well as enhance the competitiveness of Indians in the international shipping business. It harmonizes the national laws governing maritime jurisdiction with the international laws, giving more balance to shippers, carriers, and consignees in issues touching on claims, damages, and contract performance.
There were protestful outbursts in the Rajya Sabha as the members of the Opposition persistently sought a division of votes instead of a voice vote. An amendment, moved by CPI(M) MP John Brittas, was refused, and he claimed a division. Yet, Deputy Chairperson of Rajya Sabha, Bhuvaneshwar Kalita, declared that members could not seek a division during a sitting of the House, and they have to relocate to their seats. The house was not in order, so the amendment was rejected by having it voted on, and the bill passed.
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