Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Bill (CLNDB) 2009

Nuclear power source ,though dangerous is the only dependable source of power in upcoming years. Present Indian government is trying in all possible ways to make India march forward in the Nuclear powered world by passing CLNDB. 123 Agreement signed with US last year was a big leap in nuclear power generation. From the current level of 4,120 MW to 63,000 MW by 2032, is a commendable goal in our sight. this requires 50 to 60 nuclear plants to be installed. But this should not be achieved by risking the lives of the people into hazardous nuclear industries. Also, in case of any accidents or damages, the operators have to cap the losses with maximum amount. This is were 'Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Bill' comes. The bill is necessary to operationalise the 123 agreement. American companies will not enter the Indian market unless a liability cap or bill is in place. Hence, to make 123 agreement active, present government want to pass the liability Bill without any concern for people's safety or making the points public.

What does the Bill promises ?
According to the bill, in case of any nuclear damage or accident that results in loss of lives or properties, it provides for civil liability for nuclear damage, the establishment of a Nuclear Damage Claims Commission, the appointment of a Claims Commissioner and refers matters to them. The nuclear liability bill, as per the reports, proposes to cap the total liability amount to 3 hundred million Special Drawing Rights (defined by International Monetary Fund). This works out to about US$ 450 million or Rs 2100 crore per accident. Further the maximum liability of the operator reportedly would not exceed Rs 300 crore or thereabout.

Flaws in the Bill
Nuclear damages are always complex. Hence, its always difficult to pin point the causes . Also, many will come into the picture of nuclear power installation. Hence, the bill has to be as clear as crystal. There has to be some order in bill, so as whom to sue in case of damages. The victim cannot run after many who were all involved in installations. Also, the bill also has to limit the compensation amount that can be lured from the operator. Also, the damage may affect future genarations too. The fertile land once may become uncultivable after nuclear accident. Genetic diseases may occur for many generations. The bill has to answer them too. They should also take care of terrorist activities.

Above all, the total liability cap amount now being proposed, $450 million, is marginally less than the amount awarded in the Bhopal Gas case way back in 1989. No one takes interests in the life of common people. Safety and security of Indian people must be given due priority. No compromise should be made on the life and properties of innocent people. Making India a nuclear power by 2030 should not come at the cost of sacrificing lives. Since, Indian people's life, health, human rights and safety are put in danger, public consultations are necessary before passing the bill. Iam happy with the way BJP opposes the bill and they should not extend their support until necessary amendments are made in the bill.