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The recent amendments to the rules governing the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) in India mark a significant step towards greater transparency and accountability in the regulation of genetically modified (GM) organisms. Driven by a Supreme Court ruling highlighting concerns about conflicts of interest within the committee, these changes aim to ensure that decisions regarding GM crops and other genetically engineered organisms are made impartially and solely on the basis of scientific evidence. The GEAC, established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, plays a crucial role in evaluating the environmental safety and potential risks associated with the large-scale use of hazardous microorganisms and genetically engineered organisms. Its responsibilities include reviewing proposals for the release of GM organisms into the environment, conducting comprehensive environmental assessments, and enforcing regulations to prevent potential ecological harm. The amendments directly address the issues raised by the Supreme Court, specifically focusing on the disclosure of potential conflicts of interest by committee members.
Prior to these amendments, concerns existed regarding the potential influence of industry ties on GEAC decisions. The Supreme Court’s intervention in July 2023, stemming from a split verdict on the approval of GM mustard crops, underscored these concerns. Allegations of a committee member having links to companies with a vested interest in the approval of GM crops highlighted the critical need for stricter guidelines regarding transparency and conflict of interest. The court's emphasis on a clear and transparent process for decision-making emphasized the importance of unbiased scientific evaluation in the regulation of GM technology. The new amendments require all expert members of the GEAC to proactively disclose any potential conflicts of interest, including affiliations or financial ties that could influence their objectivity. Members are now obligated to recuse themselves from discussions and decision-making processes involving any matter in which they have a direct or indirect association. This mandatory self-recusal provision is a crucial element designed to eliminate even the perception of bias.
The composition of the GEAC itself is noteworthy. Chaired by a senior official from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the committee comprises representatives from various government departments, including the Department of Biotechnology and the Ministry of Industrial Development. The inclusion of experts from leading agricultural and scientific research councils, such as the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), ensures a diverse range of expertise and perspectives. The committee's mandate extends beyond simple approval or rejection of proposals. The GEAC has the authority to take punitive action under the Environment Protection Act against those who violate regulations. The committee’s monthly meetings provide a platform for comprehensive reviews of applications related to GM organisms, reflecting the ongoing and crucial nature of its responsibilities. The changes are not merely procedural; they represent a fundamental shift in approach, prioritizing transparency and ethical conduct to bolster public trust in the regulation of GM technology in India.
The long-term implications of these amendments extend beyond the immediate concerns addressed by the Supreme Court. By establishing a more transparent and robust system, the changes promote greater public confidence in the GEAC's decisions and processes. This is especially vital considering the ongoing debate surrounding the wider adoption of GM crops in India. The enhanced scrutiny of potential conflicts of interest will likely lead to more rigorous evaluations of applications, resulting in more informed and responsible decisions. Furthermore, these changes may serve as a model for other regulatory bodies dealing with potentially controversial technologies, setting a precedent for prioritizing transparency and accountability in scientific decision-making. The amendments' effectiveness will, however, depend on rigorous enforcement and a continued commitment to upholding the principles of transparency and impartiality within the GEAC.
Source: New Rules for Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee – GKToday