India, Dec. 19 -- The government's decision to push through the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025 has ignited sharp criticism from opposition parties, scientists, and civil society groups, who warn that the legislation could fundamentally alter India's nuclear governance by opening the sector to private players while weakening liability, regulatory independence and public oversight.

Passed by Parliament without referral to a standing committee, the Bill amends the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 (CLNDA), marking the most significant overhaul of India's nuclear framework in over six decades. The government argues the reforms are ...