Why in news:

• In a proactive move aimed at enhancing the ease of doing business, the state government of Punjab has proposed significant reforms to decriminalise provisions governing boilers.

Key Points:

• This includes the elimination of clauses that currently impose imprisonment, signaling a shift towards more lenient regulatory measures to support industrial operations.

Empowerment of District Magistrates

• Under the proposed reforms, District Magistrates (DMs) are set to play a pivotal role as adjudicating officers.
• They will be empowered to oversee inquiries and impose penalties for violations related to boiler operations.
• This delegation of authority from the judiciary to local administrative bodies is expected to streamline enforcement processes and ensure quicker resolution of compliance issues.

Drafting of Punjab Boiler Penalty Rules 2024

• As part of the state government’s endeavor in this regard, the Department of Industries and Commerce has meticulously drafted the Punjab Boiler Penalty Rules 2024, reflecting a comprehensive overhaul of existing regulatory frameworks.
• According to the concerned officials, these rules are designed to align with modern industrial practices while maintaining stringent oversight over boiler safety and operational standards.

Proposed Amendments to Penal Provisions

• It is noteworthy here that presently, the penal provisions for tampering with boiler registration marks include severe penalties such as imprisonment.
• The proposed amendments seek to replace these punitive measures with more proportional fines, up to Rs one lakh, for offenses like tampering with or altering boiler registration numbers.
• This adjustment aims to balance deterrence with fairness and compliance.

Structured procedure for Penalties

• Under the envisaged rules, the process for imposing penalties will follow a structured approach.
• Upon identifying violations, the Director of Boilers will authorize the DM/ADM of the respective district to conduct thorough inquiries.
• This procedural clarity ensures that penalties are imposed judiciously, with ample opportunity for affected parties to present their case and defend themselves.

These expanded reforms reflect Punjab's commitment to modernize its regulatory framework for boilers, balancing regulatory oversight with measures that support industrial growth and operational efficiency.