Sri Vijaya Puram, July 21: Rayhaan Pasha, State President (Youth Wing), All India Tribal Development Council, A&N Islands has submitted a representation to the Secretary (Tribal Welfare), Andaman & Nicobar Administration, expressing concern over the Draft Andaman and Nicobar Islands Tribal Councils (Preparation of Electoral Rolls and Conduct of Elections) Rules, 2026. In his representation, he stated that the Nicobarese are one of India’s unique indigenous tribal communities, known for their peaceful nature, rich cultural heritage and strong traditions. For generations, the Tribal Council system, led by Tribal Captains and village elders, resolved disputes peacefully, and protected the customs, identity, and dignity of the Nicobari people for generations.
He expressed concern that the proposed election system, although introduced with good intentions, may gradually create competition, divisions, and misunderstandings within a small tribal society where people have always lived together like one family. He stated that while development is essential, it should never come at the cost of losing the community’s identity, traditions, and social harmony. Rayhaan Pasha reiterated that the Nicobarese are not against development. “We welcome better education, healthcare, transport, employment, and opportunities for our youth. We want progress, but our future should be built without sacrificing who we are.”
He also highlighted that every indigenous tribe has its own unique way of life. The Sentinelese continue to preserve their identity because the world respects their choice, while the The Onge, Jarwa, Shompen and the Great Andamanese remind us that every indigenous community has its own customs and traditional way of life that deserves respect and protection. In the same spirit, he urged that the traditional governance system of the Nicobarese should be preserved and strengthened. “Development can build roads, schools, and buildings, but only our traditions can preserve the soul of the Nicobari people. If our customs disappear, no law can recreate them. If our unity is broken, no election can restore the bond our ancestors protected for generations,” Rayhaan Pasha said.
Through his representation, Rayhaan Pasha has respectfully appealed to the Andaman & Nicobar Administration to reconsider the proposed Draft Rules and ensure that any future reforms strengthen the traditional Tribal Council system while preserving the unity, customs, culture, and peaceful way of life of the Nicobarese community.
He expressed confidence that the Administration, which has always played an important role in safeguarding the indigenous tribes of the islands, will continue to protect the identity, traditions, and heritage of the Nicobarese for the benefit of future generations.
