Sri Vijayapuram, Jan 4:A formal demand has been submitted to the Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands seeking the declaration of Makar Sankranti (January 14, 2026) as a public holiday in the Union Territory.
In a representation addressed to the Lieutenant Governor at Raj Niwas, Sri Vijayapuram, Mr. Rakeshwar Lall, State President of Hindu Rashtra Shakti, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, urged the Administration to consider the religious and cultural significance of the festival and the sentiments of a large section of Islanders.
The representation stated that Makar Sankranti is one of the oldest and most sacred festivals of India, celebrated with deep religious faith, traditional rituals, and social harmony across the country. It noted that a significant number of residents in the Islands, including government employees, workers, students, and the general public, observe the festival with devotion.
The memorandum expressed concern that the non-declaration of Makar Sankranti as a public holiday causes inconvenience to the public and affects religious sentiments, as many employees are compelled to attend duty and are unable to celebrate the festival with their families.
Emphasizing the need for cultural inclusiveness and administrative sensitivity, the representation appealed to the Andaman and Nicobar Administration to declare Makar Sankranti an official public holiday. It stated that the demand reflects the collective sentiment of the people and expressed hope for a positive and timely decision.
The signatory further urged the Administration to uphold the cultural values and traditions of the Islanders by acceding to what was termed a rightful and genuine public demand.
