"Lok Sabha Passes Biological Diversity Bill Amid Opposition Protests"

"Amendment Aims to Simplify Compliance for Domestic Companies, Sparks Controversy Over Benefit-Sharing and Research Activities"

On Tuesday, the Lok Sabha successfully passed the Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill, 2022, despite disruptions caused by opposition protests demanding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's response to the situation in Manipur. The bill seeks to amend the existing Biodiversity Act of 2002 and aims to simplify compliance obligations for domestic companies.

The passage of the bill was not without challenges, as opposition members created pandemonium in the lower house. They stood in the well of the House, displaying placards, and shouting slogans. Amidst the chaos, Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav introduced the bill. The discussions were brief, lasting less than half an hour, and only two BJP MPs, Sanjay Jaiswal and Aparajita Sarangi, participated, with Yadav responding to the discussion.

While RSP's NK Premachandran and Trinamool Congress' Sougata Roy had proposed amendments to the Bill, they did not pursue them during its passage.

The main points of contention around the bill revolve around its amendments to the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, primarily aimed at simplifying compliance requirements for domestic companies. Notably, it removes research and bio-survey activities from the scope of benefit-sharing requirements. Additionally, the bill decriminalizes all offences under the Act.

The proposed legislation was sent to a joint Parliamentary panel after its introduction in Lok Sabha in December 2021. This panel has already submitted its report on the bill, paving the way for its passage in the House.

By amending the Biodiversity Act, the government aims to streamline regulations for domestic companies, easing their compliance burden. However, the bill has faced opposition concerns and debates over its potential impact on benefit-sharing arrangements and research activities.

Despite the heated discussions and protests, the bill successfully cleared Lok Sabha and was adjourned until 5 pm. The passing of this bill marks an important development in the domain of biological diversity and environmental legislation in India.

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