Constitution of SCSC for APTEL Chairman

## Policy Analysis Report: Constitution of Search-cum-Selection Committee for Chairperson of APTEL **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification from the Ministry of Power regarding the constitution of a Search-cum-Selection Committee for the appointment of the Chairperson of the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL). The core purpose, as gleaned from the text, is to establish a committee that will recommend candidates for this crucial leadership position. Key findings reveal the composition of the committee, its primary function, and its authority to determine its own selection procedures. This policy is likely intended to ensure a transparent and qualified selection process for the APTEL Chairperson. **2. Introduction:** This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Ministry of Power's notification concerning the Search-cum-Selection Committee for the Chairperson of APTEL. The analysis is based solely on the information provided within the policy text. **3. Policy Overview:** * This is a *new* policy establishing a committee. * **Core Objective:** To constitute a Search-cum-Selection Committee responsible for recommending candidates to the Central Government for the appointment of the Chairperson of the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL). **4. Background and Rationale:** As this is a new policy establishing a committee, it addresses the need for a structured and transparent process for selecting the APTEL Chairperson. The policy likely aims to improve the selection process, ensuring that highly qualified individuals are considered for this vital position. Given the reference to Section 33 of the Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021, this policy is likely a direct consequence of that Act's provisions regarding tribunal appointments. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** * The policy establishes a Search-cum-Selection Committee comprised of the following members: * Hon'ble Dr. Justice Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud, Judge, Supreme Court of India (Chairperson) * Secretary to the Government of India, Ministry of New Renewable Energy (Member) * Secretary to the Government of India, Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas (Member) * Hon'ble Mr. Justice S. S. Shinde, former Chief Justice, Rajasthan High Court (Member) * Secretary, Ministry of Power (Member-Secretary) * The committee is mandated to recommend a panel of two names for the appointment to the post of Chairperson of APTEL. * The committee is granted the authority to determine its own procedure for making its recommendation. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary target audience includes: * The Ministry of Power * The Search-cum-Selection Committee members * Potential candidates for the position of Chairperson of APTEL * The Central Government (regarding the final appointment) * The Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL) and its stakeholders, including electricity generation, transmission, and distribution companies, regulators, and consumers, who will be affected by the appointment of the Chairperson. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency:** Ministry of Power and the Search-cum-Selection Committee. * **Timelines/Procedures:** The policy does not specify a timeline. However, it implies that the committee will convene and establish its own procedures for evaluating candidates and making recommendations. The notification comes into effect immediately upon publication. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The intended outcome is a more rigorous and transparent selection process for the Chairperson of APTEL. This should lead to the appointment of a highly qualified and impartial individual who can effectively lead the tribunal in resolving disputes within the electricity sector. A well-functioning APTEL is vital for ensuring fair competition, protecting consumer interests, and promoting investment in the power sector. **9. Conclusion:** The Ministry of Power's notification establishes a Search-cum-Selection Committee for the appointment of the Chairperson of APTEL. The policy underscores the importance of a robust and transparent selection process for this crucial leadership position. The constitution of the committee, its defined function, and its procedural autonomy suggest a commitment to selecting a qualified individual who can effectively contribute to the efficient functioning of the electricity sector. This policy demonstrates the implementation of Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021 and the seriousness of the government of India with regards to the process and outcome of the selection of individuals in key positions.

Key Entities Referenced