Little Andaman unit of Revenue Department faces Staff Shortage, Residents Demand Urgent Posting of Staffs

John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Little Andaman, July 12: The Little Andaman unit of the Revenue Department has been grappling with staff shortages, leaving the positions of Tahsildar and Patwari vacant for the past two weeks following the retirement of the previous Tahsildar. The absence of these key officials has led to growing frustration among the residents of Little Andaman village, located in the South Andaman District. Despite persistent demands for the appointment of a Tahsildar and additional Patwaris, the situation remains unresolved.
Residents have expressed their disappointment, stating that despite the establishment of a Revenue office, they have been unable to access essential services due to the lack of a Tahsildar since the retirement of the previous incumbent last month.
The absence of a Tahsildar has caused significant delays and inconveniences for individuals applying for income certificates, OBC certificates, resident certificates, and other essential documents, as visitors are forced to leave without having their work completed. This has hampered the smooth functioning of the Revenue Department and caused frustration among the community.
Mr. M. Vasudevan Nair, the Zilla Parishad Member from Hutbay, shed light on the situation, remarking, “Since June 2023, no replacement has been appointed for the retired Tahsildar. As a result, many people have been affected, unable to obtain the necessary certificates. Visitors are left disappointed and frustrated by the lack of progress. In the absence of a Tahsildar, the Block Development Officer (BDO) assumed temporary charge, which is not enough.”
Residents of Little Andaman have been left in a state of distress, visiting the Revenue Department daily, only to return disappointed after waiting until evening. In light of these circumstances, the community is demanding immediate action from the district administration to appoint a regular Tahsildar for Little Andaman. They have also called for the appointment of at least two Patwaris to address the workload and ensure smooth operations within the department. Currently, only one Patwari has been assigned to perform the duties of both a Patwari and a surveyor but the lone Patwari is also on medical leave.