From port development to transparency in procedures: LS MPs weigh in on bill on shipping goods

Introducing the Bill for discussion, Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal emphasised the need to replace the colonial-era legislation. He explained that the Bill deals with the rights and liabilities arising from the transfer of a bill of lading, a critical document in shipping that details the type, quantity, condition and destination of goods. The new legislation ensures that a bill of lading held by a consignee or endorsee for valuable consideration will serve as conclusive evidence of shipment, binding the master of the vessel or any other signatory.

Sonowal stressed that the Bill serves two important purposes. First, it is part of the government’s larger initiative to repeal outdated colonial laws and reflect India’s identity as a modern, independent nation. “As the fastest-growing major economy, it is essential that our laws reflect our distinct identity rather than remain stuck in an archaic colonial mindset,” he said, adding that more than 1,500 such colonial-era laws have already been repealed.

Secondly, he pointed out that the Bill aims to enhance ease of doing business in India’s maritime trade sector. Following extensive stakeholder consultations, it was concluded that the legislation remains highly relevant and needs modernisation rather than repeal.

During the debate, several NDA MPs praised the Bill as a much-needed update to a 168-year-old law, ensuring greater safety, transparency and efficiency in maritime trade. However, Opposition members did not entirely oppose the Bill but argued that it lacked substantial changes.

NCP MP Supriya Sule clarified that the Opposition was not outrightly against the Bill. “My colleague and friend was under the illusion that the entire Opposition is in a combative mode against this Bill. Let me, with full humility, say that the Opposition has always supported it because we understand that this is not some great policy change they have made,” she said.

Congress MP Capt Viriato Fernandes from Goa took a sharper stance, alleging that the Bill seemed to be another attempt by the BJP government to favour a particular businessman. “At first glance, it appears to be part of the government’s pattern of handing over every aspect of our economy to their most favoured businessman. This is not a mere allegation — we know exactly who benefits,” Fernandes said.

He further claimed that the move could be a step toward dismantling the Shipping Corporation of India, hinting that its privatisation would primarily benefit a select corporate entity. “And who will gain from it? The most favoured businessman of this government,” he added.

Despite the Opposition’s concerns, the Bill was passed without major resistance, marking another step in the government’s push to modernise India’s maritime trade regulations.