New Boilers Bill Aims to Modernize Century-Old Law

The Rajya Sabha introduced a new Boilers Bill to replace the 1923 law, decriminalize certain offenses, and promote ease of doing business. Approved by the Union Cabinet, the bill ensures better safety measures, groups similar provisions, and maintains criminal penalties for major offences, focusing on current industry needs.

The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday introduced a new Boilers Bill aimed at replacing the age-old Boilers Act of 1923. The bill, backed by the commerce and industry ministry, seeks to decriminalize various offenses and streamline business operations related to boiler use.

Approved by the Union Cabinet on August 2, the bill introduces specific provisions for the safety of workers inside boilers, mandates that boiler repairs be carried out by qualified personnel, and addresses modern industry requirements. Additionally, similar provisions scattered throughout the 1923 Act have now been consolidated into six chapters for easier comprehension.

Significantly, the bill retains criminal penalties for major offenses that could result in loss of life or property, while other offenses will now incur fiscal penalties rather than criminal charges. The bill also omits outdated provisions to keep the legislation relevant. The Boilers Bill, 2024, was officially introduced in the Rajya Sabha on August 6, 2024.