Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 15: The South Andaman Police and District Administration on Sunday categorically rejected the proposed island-wide bandh call scheduled for February 16, stating that such actions are unconstitutional and against the interest of students and the general public. Addressing a press conference, Superintendent of Police (SP) Shweta K. Sugathan informed the media that an intimation letter regarding a state-wide bandh was received from the Joint Action Forum Against Deemed University.
She stated that the Police Department had officially communicated the rejection of the bandh intimation, citing directions and judgments of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. The SP emphasized that any violation of the rejection order or involvement in unlawful activities such as blocking roads, stopping vehicles, intimidating citizens, or disturbing examinations would attract strict legal action under relevant sections of law. She appealed to the public to cooperate with authorities and maintain peace, especially considering the ongoing examinations and academic activities of students across the islands.
Following the SP’s remarks, District Magistrate Ms. Purva Garg elaborated on the administrative and legal aspects of the issue. She clarified that the demand raised by students regarding continuation of affiliation with Pondicherry University and non-increase of fees had already been addressed by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration through a detailed press note issued on February 13. According to the administration, there would be no change in the fee structure and existing students would continue to receive degrees from Pondicherry University to ensure academic continuity and avoid disruption in their education.
The District Magistrate further cited the Supreme Court judgment in Bharat Kumar vs State of Kerala, reiterating that calling and enforcing a bandh is unconstitutional as it infringes upon the fundamental rights of citizens. She stressed that no political party or organisation has the authority to curtail the rights of the public or obstruct students from accessing education and examinations.
In view of potential disturbances, the District Administration has issued an order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to prevent obstruction of public movement, transport services, educational institutions, tourist places, and other public facilities on February 16. The order clearly prohibits gatherings of five or more persons without prior permission, blocking of roads, intimidation, forced closure of shops or offices, and any disruption of examinations or academic operations.
Authorities also assured that all public and private transport services, including shipping and ferry operations, would function as per schedule. Special emphasis was laid on ensuring smooth conduct of board examinations, school tests, and recruitment exams, including special examinations at JNRM College and the Railway Recruitment Board exam at DBRAIT.
Concluding the press conference, both officials urged parents and students not to miss classes or examinations and assured strict action against any individual or group attempting to create disturbances. The administration reiterated its commitment to safeguarding students’ future while maintaining peace and normalcy across South Andaman.
