The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPS&W) on July 01, 2026, issued the Draft Marine Aids to Navigation (Manner of Holding Inquiry, Imposition of Penalty and Appeal) Rules, 2026.
The following has been stated:
• The Draft lays down the procedural framework under the Marine Aids to Navigation Act, 2021, for conducting inquiries, imposing penalties, and handling appeals related to violations of the Act. The rules provide that an adjudicating officer may initiate proceedings based on complaints, reports, or evidence by issuing a show cause notice, followed by a structured inquiry process ensuring notice, hearing, submission of evidence, and reasoned orders, with the entire adjudication to be completed within three months.
• They also define powers of adjudicating officers, including summoning persons, recording evidence, and inspecting documents. An appeal mechanism is provided before the Director General within 30 days of the order, with provisions for scrutiny, rectification of defects, hearings, and issuance of a reasoned appellate order confirming, modifying, or setting aside the penalty.
• The rules further allow limited extension of timelines for valid reasons, ensure communication of orders to parties, and mandate that penalties collected are credited to the Consolidated Fund of India. Forms for show cause notice, appeal, and related procedures are also prescribed to standardize enforcement and ensure transparency and due process.
The objections or suggestions are invited by August 05, 2026.
[Notification no. - G.S.R. 545(E)]
