Controversy Erupts Over Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024: Autonomy Under Threat?

The Rajya Sabha debates the Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which aims to enhance the Railway Board's functioning and independence. Opposition accuses the government of over-centralization and lack of scrutiny. Proposals for an independent regulator and increased accountability are discussed amid calls for autonomy and reforms in railway governance.

The discussion in the Rajya Sabha on Monday centered around the contentious Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which has sparked a debate on the autonomy of the Railway Board. Opposition members have accused the government of attempting to centralize control and avoiding parliamentary scrutiny.

Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw presented the bill, which proposes the inclusion of the Railway Board under the 1989 Railway Act, handing over the responsibility of appointments and qualifications to the central government. The bill unites various historic acts under the current law and introduces an independent regulator.

Concerns were raised about governance, fare hikes, and the state of infrastructure. Opposition members criticized the government's approach, arguing for more autonomy and decentralization in railway governance, while government members defended the bill as a step towards a smoother and more accountable railway system.

(With inputs from agencies.)