Nishar Mohammed & Vikramaditya
Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr 21: Concerns have been raised over the reported registration of FIRs against individuals visiting Indira Point in Great Nicobar, with questions emerging on restrictions and their impact on local livelihoods and tourism activities in the region.
Addressing a press conference today at Sri Vijaya Puram, the District Congress President, Mr. John Robert today said that reports of FIRs being filed under regulations for visiting Indira Point are “confusing and concerning.” He stated that even local representatives and visitors have reportedly faced action, which raises serious questions about access to the area. He questioned the rationale behind invoking such regulations, especially when there is growing public curiosity about the Great Nicobar development project.
He further pointed out that tourism-related activities such as bird watching and beach visits have been emerging as key livelihood sources for local youth. “If such restrictions continue, it will directly affect unemployed youth who have invested in vehicles and tourism-related services,” he said, urging authorities to reconsider the approach and ensure that genuine visitors are not discouraged.
Mr. Robert also suggested a regulated access system instead of blanket restrictions, proposing checkpoints and entry monitoring rather than a complex permission process. He emphasized that smoother access would help boost tourism and support the local economy.
Additionally, Mr. Robert raised concern over the alleged neglect of statues of prominent national leaders in the Islands. Referring to a recent video, he described the condition of the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi statue at Gandhinagar as “deeply unfortunate and disrespectful,” stating that it is surrounded by overgrown vegetation and even parts such as the spectacles are missing.
He said similar neglect can be seen at other locations as well, including the statue of Late Rajiv Gandhi at the Water Sports Complex and that of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru at JNRM, both of which are reportedly in poor condition. Emphasizing that these leaders are integral to the nation’s history, he urged the administration to immediately restore and properly maintain these sites. He further appealed that if upkeep is not possible, the authorities should consider relocating the statues rather than allowing them to remain in neglect. He also called upon local Panchayats and community members to take initiative in preserving and respecting such public monuments.
