Port Blair, Jan 16: Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, PCC President called on the Lt Governor today and discussed about the Buffer Zone issue and its impact on local inhabitants as it has already become a major burning issue of these Islands. He requested the Lt. Governor to find a permanent solution of this issue.
In the meeting, Mr. Sharma said that the declaration of Buffer zone area has shaken the soul of Islanders, as their livelihood comes from the land under their possession. Mr. Sharma stated that, since the Lt Governor has been empowered by the Government of India to make amendments in the Buffer Zone, he may consider exemption of all the revenue villages out from the Buffer zone so that the people residing in these areas are not disturbed and could lead a peaceful life.
Further Mr. Sharma has requested to the Administrator to keep whole Baratang Island out of this zone which is not only an Island of inhabitants but is also a major place for tourism activities of these Islands. He also urged the Lt. Governor to keep out the area of Sea which falls under the Buffer Zone.
Mr. Sharma also advocated for peaceful and harmonious co-existence of the local inhabitants as well as the Jarawas residing in the area.
“Our people are not at all against the welfare of the Jarawa tribe or any other tribes of these Islands rather they respect their existence. So let the Jarawas lead their life as per their own will and wish and the people of Andaman also may not be troubled in the name of Buffer Zone.” Mr. Sharma added.
