India’s SHANTI Nuclear Bill Wins U.S. Praise, Sparks Concern in Pakistan

Islamabad/New Delhi: India’s newly passed SHANTI (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Technology for India) Bill has drawn strong international attention, receiving praise from the United States while drawing criticism from Pakistan.

Following the passage of the SHANTI Bill in the Indian Parliament, Pakistan expressed security concerns, with Islamabad monitoring the developments closely. Ironically, the country raising concerns about nuclear safety has itself faced scrutiny over its own nuclear security record.

The U.S., however, welcomed the legislation. The Trump administration called the SHANTI Bill a step toward strengthening energy security partnerships and promoting peaceful civilian nuclear cooperation. The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi highlighted its readiness to collaborate with India on joint innovation, research, and development in the energy sector.

Opening Nuclear Energy to Private Sector

Passed during India’s winter parliamentary session, the SHANTI Bill was signed into law by President Draupadi Murmu on December 20. The legislation marks a significant reform in India’s civil nuclear framework, enabling private companies and joint ventures to obtain licenses from the government to build, own, and operate nuclear power plants.

While India’s nuclear energy currently contributes a small fraction to the country’s overall power generation, the SHANTI Bill is expected to significantly expand its role.

Pakistan’s Response

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Tahir Hussain Andrabi, voiced concern over the bill, citing India’s past lapses in nuclear security and alleging that private sector involvement could pose risks in handling sensitive nuclear material. Andrabi also repeated claims about alleged radioactive material seizures in India, which New Delhi has consistently denied after thorough investigations.

Andrabi stated, “The SHANTI Bill could challenge global efforts to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive nuclear materials. We hope adequate security measures will be implemented.” Indian Union Minister Jitendra Singh countered these concerns, emphasizing that nuclear security standards remain uncompromised and that uranium beyond specified limits will continue to remain under government control.

U.S. Applauds India’s Initiative

While Pakistan reacted with apprehension, the U.S. welcomed India’s move. The American Embassy’s statement praised the SHANTI Bill as a step toward a stronger energy security partnership and peaceful civil nuclear cooperation, highlighting opportunities for joint research, development, and innovation in the nuclear energy sector.

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