Staff Correspondent
Sri Vijaya Puram, Apr. 28: Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Mr. Rahul Gandhi, on Tuesday said he had come to the Great Nicobar Islands “to listen, not to speak,” assuring the Nicobarese tribal community that he would stand with them in protecting their land, identity and future. Addressing a gathering at the Community Hall in Rajiv Nagar, Campbell Bay, he emphasized that any development project imposed against the will of the people would be unacceptable.
“I have been told that this project is being implemented against your wishes and that it could cause serious harm to your lives,” Mr. Gandhi said. “You explained your concerns to me earlier, but I believe such matters can only be understood fully by seeing them firsthand. That is why I came here—to understand what is really happening.” He added that he would spend the day interacting with local residents to gain a clearer picture of their concerns.
Mr. Gandhi further alleged that attempts had been made to prevent his visit. “There were efforts to stop me. Permissions were delayed, excuses were made, but I have come here because it is important to hear you directly,” he said. Reassuring the gathering, he stated that both he and his party would make every possible effort to safeguard the rights of the tribal community. “Do not worry. We will put our full strength into ensuring that your land and your future are protected,” he said, thanking people for attending the meeting despite the heat.
Earlier, tribal leaders extended a traditional welcome to Gandhi and expressed gratitude for his visit, calling it a “historic moment” for the island. They highlighted that the community has long been the guardian of the forests and coastal ecosystems and warned that large-scale infrastructure projects could disrupt their way of life.
Community representatives voiced concerns over the proposed mega development project, stating that it threatens ancestral land, biodiversity and cultural identity. They demanded the formation of an independent committee comprising wildlife and environmental experts to thoroughly assess the impact of the project before any further steps are taken.
Several speakers pointed out that the forests and coastal areas are central to their livelihood and survival. They expressed fears that displacement and restrictions on traditional practices such as fishing and forest-based activities would severely affect their lives. Concerns were also raised over inadequate basic facilities, including water supply, electricity, communication and transport connectivity in resettlement areas.
Tribal members further alleged that they were not adequately consulted before initiating the project and that their voices were not represented in key decision-making processes, including forest clearance procedures. They stressed the need for dignity, respect and proper inclusion in governance mechanisms affecting their land.
Most importantly, the Chairman of Tribal Counci, Mr. Barnabus Manju raised serious concerns over the No Objection Certificate (NOC) issued for the GNI project, alleging that it was granted through questionable and non-transparent methods. Present at the discussion, Ms. Juliet highlighted that the rights of tribal communities are being undermined, stating that they are not being treated with equality and fairness. She further questioned how the AAJVS could approve the NOC on behalf of the Shompen tribe, an indigenous community, without their clear and informed consent.
Captain Mr. Titus said we won’t fall for false dream shown by government we Need our land we will not compromise on it
The event was anchored by Mr. Rahul Singh, Congress leader of Great Nicobar Island
