RS passes ports Bill despite opposition
Context:
- The Rajya Sabha passed the Major Ports Authority Bill, 2020 with 84 votes in favour and 44 against. The Bill aimed to make the ports world class and give the port authorities power to make their own decisions.
About the Bill:
- The Bill repeals the Major Ports Trusts Act, 1963. The bill provides for the following key features:
- The Bill aims to reduce the number of members from the present 17-19 members to 11-14 members
- It constitutes The Board of Major Port Authority for each Major Port in place of the Board of Trustees, which shall consist of a Chairperson, a Deputy Chairperson, one member each from the concerned State Government in which the Major Port is situated.
- Further, to enable the autonomy of the Board of Major Port Authority, they are entrusted with the following among other responsibilities-
- To use its lands, property, assets, and funds as it may deem fit for the benefits of the Major Port
- To create a master plan independent of any local or State Government regulations of any authority whatsoever in respect of any development or infrastructure established or proposed to be established within the limits of the port and the land appurtenant thereto
- To enter into and perform contracts necessary for the performance of its functions under the proposed legislation
- To make necessary rules and regulations for the smooth operation, development, and planning of the Major Ports
- To fix tariff except in natural interest, security and emergency arising out of inaction and default
- The Bill provides for the composition of the Adjudicatory Board consisting of a Presiding Officer and two other members, as may be appointed by the Central Government on the recommendations of the Selection Committee consisting of the Chief Justice of India or his nominee, the Secretary of the Department dealing with Shipping and such other persons as may be prescribed.
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