Even though some of the suggestions from the maritime states and other stakeholders have been accommodated, the revised draft Indian Ports Bill,...

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed firm opposition to the revised draft Indian Ports Bill, 2022, observing that the Union government's latest revision fails to address fundamental federal concerns raised by coastal states. Stalin pointed out that despite nominal stakeholder consultations, the draft bill persists in imposing an intrusive centralized regulatory apparatus over non-major ports.

The Chief Minister stressed that transferring port oversight powers to central authorities restricts the ability of maritime states to pursue dynamic, region-specific commercial investments. Tamil Nadu has developed specialized maritime infrastructure that serves heavy manufacturing, engineering exports, and fishing communities along its extensive coastline. Stalin argued that introducing bureaucratic central layers will stifle private-public investments and delay critical coastal development projects.

Stalin reaffirmed that true national development depends on strengthening state capabilities rather than eroding federal prerogatives through legislative overreach. He called upon the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to respect state rights, warning that centralizing port administration will undermine economic decentralization. Tamil Nadu continues to stand firmly at the forefront of protecting federal rights, advocating decentralized economic development across diverse national policymaking forums.