The fate of the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Bill, 2010 may lie in the hands of five undecided Members of Parliament?largely from the Third Front?as the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science & Technology, which is currently looking into the Bill, enters the final phases.
Top government sources confirmed that the 30-member committee was evenly poised between the for and against with five MPs?two from the Samajwadi Party, and one each from the BSP, RJD and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD)?holding the key to the finalisation of the report on the Bill.
?A majority opinion on the Bill will hinge on the five MPs who have by no means made their minds clear on the matter,? the source said.
Sources also confirmed the committee will take another three meetings to finalise its report. ?The next three meetings are scheduled for July 27 th , August 2nd and 4 and the report will be tabled around August 8th ,? said a senior minister in the government. Sources also confirmed clause 17(b), which would make nuclear suppliers liable for negligence?a clause which has been frowned upon by several potential fuel supplier countries?will remain part of the Bill.
After the standing committee report is tabled in the House, the Cabinet will consider amendments to be introduced, if any and finally move the bill for consideration and passing in the House.
?We hope that the process can be completed in the Monsoon Session itself,? said the source.