India Proposes Decriminalising Minor Petroleum Licence Breaches

India's draft Petroleum (Amendment) Bill, 2026 proposes decriminalising minor licence breaches, replacing them with civil penalties of up to ₹5 crore for repeat violations. Criminal liability is retained for serious offences, while minor breaches will now incur fines. The government is seeking stake

What is established so far

  • Decriminalises minor petroleum licence breaches
  • Introduces civil penalties up to ₹5 crore for repeat violations
  • Retains criminal action for serious offences
  • Government seeks stakeholder feedback on draft bill