Lok Sabha gives nod to Disaster Management Amendment Bill

Amid disruptions in both Houses of Parliament over issues ranging from Adani bribery indictment to George Soros, the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The Bill aims to strengthen the efficient working of the national and state disaster management authorities, with the government emphasising that the legislation will help states in handling all disasters in a better way.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah in a post on X said, “The Lok Sabha today passed the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to PM Modi for this landmark move. The game-changing provisions of the law will serve as a fresh impetus to build a disaster-resilient Bharat by empowering our response forces to shield our citizens from any kind of calamity.”

The Bill makes way for the security of every citizen by prioritising a proactive approach to disaster management over a reactive one. The House cleared the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, to amend the Disaster Management Act by a voice vote. Several amendments moved by opposition members were negated by the House.

The government said states faced difficulties in implementing the Disaster Management Act of 2005. The proposed amendment is based on overcoming the difficulties flagged by states.

Responding to a debate on the Bill, Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai said it is a strong legislation to strengthen the disaster management system in the country.

Earlier in the day, the face-off between BJP MPs and Opposition MPs continued in Parliament with the Rajya Sabha being adjourned for the day amid uproar over the alleged nexus between US hedge fund tycoon Soros and Sonia Gandhi and Adani row among other issues.