Govt proposes tougher penalties for petroleum offences, decriminalises licence breaches

The Indian government has proposed amendments to the Petroleum Act, aimed at decriminalizing regulatory breaches. Violations of petroleum licence terms may incur civil penalties instead of criminal charges, promoting a more administrative approach. However, serious offences related to public safety will still face criminal prosecution under existing laws. The draft amendments outline significant penalties for various violations, including severe fines and imprisonment.