The Congress on Saturday raised fresh concerns over the Centre’s ambitious infrastructure project in Great Nicobar Island, alleging contradictions in the government’s claims about its impact on local tribal communities.
In a statement, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticised the government’s approach, saying that development activities were proceeding without adequate regard for indigenous populations. “The bulldozer moves on unmindful of the concerns of the local communities,” he said, accusing the Centre of ignoring voices on the ground.
Ramesh also pointed to what he described as an inconsistency in the government’s position. “There is a fundamental contradiction here: the Modi government claims that the Great Nicobar infrastructure project will not disturb or displace tribes—then why a relocation plan? Clearly the claim is a lie,” he stated.
The proposed Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project, touted as a strategic and economic boost for the region, includes plans for a transshipment port, airport, township, and power infrastructure. The government has maintained that the project will bring significant development while safeguarding the rights and habitats of indigenous tribes, including the Shompen and Nicobarese communities.
However, opposition parties and several activists have repeatedly expressed concerns over the environmental and social implications of the project, particularly its potential impact on ecologically sensitive zones and vulnerable tribal groups. They have called for greater transparency, wider consultations, and stricter safeguards before proceeding further.
The government, on its part, has asserted that all necessary environmental clearances have been obtained and that measures are in place to ensure minimal disruption. Officials have also emphasised the strategic importance of the project, given the location of Great Nicobar Island near key international shipping routes.
The latest remarks by the Congress leader add to the ongoing political debate surrounding the project, with questions over development, environmental sustainability, and tribal rights continuing to dominate the discourse.
