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SC Calls for Expert Appellate Body to Review Major Port Disputes.                                                                                                                                                                          

The Supreme Court has recommended the creation of an expert appellate body to hear appeals against orders of the Adjudicatory Board, formerly the Tariff Authority for Major Ports (TAMP). While disposing of two decades-old tariff disputes between Paradip Port Authority and Paradeep Phosphates Ltd, the Court noted that tariff fixation involves complex technical and financial considerations beyond its expertise. Presently, under the Major Port Authorities Act, 2021, appeals from the Adjudicatory Board lie directly to the Supreme Court, burdening it with highly technical cases. Drawing parallels with the Securities Appellate Tribunal and TDSAT, the Court stressed the need for a specialised appellate body to ensure effective, affordable, and expert adjudication. It directed the Registry to forward the order to the Legislative Department for consideration. With major ports witnessing rapid growth, experts believe such a tiered structure is essential to balance efficiency, transparency, and access to justice in port-related disputes.