Sri Vijaya Puram/Campbell Bay, April 29: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday held discussions with tribal leaders in the Great Nicobar region during his visit to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, bringing renewed attention to growing apprehensions over a proposed mega infrastructure project in the area.
During his visit to Campbell Bay in Nicobar district, Gandhi interacted with members of local tribal communities, including representatives of the Nicobarese population, who have raised serious concerns regarding the scale and implications of the development initiative planned for Great Nicobar.
Mega project sparks fears over environment and tribal rights
The ambitious Great Nicobar project includes the construction of a transhipment port, an integrated township, a dual-use airport for civilian and military operations, and a power generation facility. While the project is being positioned as a strategic and economic boost, sections of the local population argue that it may come at a significant environmental and social cost.
Tribal leaders in the region have expressed concerns over what they describe as inadequate transparency in the planning process. They allege that critical details about the project’s impact have not been fully shared with affected communities, leaving them uncertain about their future.
Concerns over impact on vulnerable tribes and biodiversity
Community representatives highlighted the potential risks to the Shompen tribe, one of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) residing in the island’s interior forests. Increased external contact, they warned, could expose the tribe to diseases and disrupt their isolated way of life.
In addition to social concerns, fears of ecological damage were also raised. Leaders pointed out that Great Nicobar is home to several endemic species, and large-scale infrastructure development could disturb fragile ecosystems unique to the island.
Titus Peter, the First Captain (village head) of Pulobhabi village, said residents are worried about both environmental degradation and the long-term survival of indigenous communities. He also alleged that authorities have not been fully transparent about the project’s scope.
Rahul Gandhi calls for people-centric development
Addressing local concerns, Gandhi criticised what he described as excessive corporate influence in development planning. He stressed that any project in ecologically sensitive and tribal-dominated regions must prioritise the needs and consent of local communities.
He assured residents that their voices would be raised at appropriate platforms, emphasising the importance of balancing development with environmental protection and tribal rights.
Visit to Indira Point and political outreach
As part of his tour, Gandhi also visited Indira Point, the southernmost tip of India, where he paid tribute to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Earlier, upon arriving in Sri Vijaya Puram on April 26, he held meetings with local Congress leaders to assess political and developmental issues in the union territory.
Allegations of procedural lapses
Senior Congress leader G Bhasker, who accompanied Gandhi, accused the administration of misleading tribal communities. He claimed that No Objection Certificates (NOCs) were obtained without adequately informing residents about the full scale and consequences of the project.
Bhasker said the project, in its current form, raises serious environmental and social concerns and requires urgent review.
Growing demand for reassessment
Tribal groups have urged the Central Government to reconsider aspects of the project, demanding greater transparency, environmental safeguards, and meaningful consultation with indigenous populations.
With the debate intensifying, the Great Nicobar development initiative continues to draw scrutiny over its long-term implications for both ecological sustainability and tribal welfare.