Debate Intensifies Over Controversial Nuclear Energy Bill in India

The Indian government's SHANTI Bill aimed at opening nuclear energy to private investment sparked intense debate in the Lok Sabha. Opposition MPs demanded further scrutiny by a Parliamentary Committee citing safety and liability concerns, while supporters claimed it would boost energy sufficiency and economic growth.

The Indian Parliament witnessed a heated debate on Wednesday as lawmakers discussed the SHANTI Bill, a proposal by the government to open up India's civil nuclear sector to private and foreign investments. The ruling coalition members supported the bill, advocating its potential to enhance the nation's energy sufficiency.

However, opposition MPs called for the bill to be referred to a Parliamentary Committee for broader consultations. Congress member Manish Tewari highlighted the risks, arguing that removing liability from suppliers could be detrimental in a nuclear incident and criticized the bill for lacking a framework for handling radioactive waste.

Critics like Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed concerns over the bill's safety provisions, labeling it a 'dangerous leap'. Additionally, many Opposition members feared it might marginalize domestic industry in favor of foreign investments, contradicting the 'Make In India' initiative.

(With inputs from agencies.)