John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, July 24: The decision to transfer notorious criminals to Andaman Jail has evoked deep apprehension among the Islanders, leading to expressions of concern over the region’s social fabric and national security. Hindu Rastra Shakthi, a prominent organization in Andaman and Nicobar, has been at the forefront of opposing this move and has raised compelling reasons for their reservations.
In a press conference held today, Mr. Angshuman Roy, State President of the Youth Wing, and Mr. Rajesh Kumar Mazumdar, State Vice President of the Youth Wing, representing Hindu Rastra Shakthi voiced their grave concerns over the recent decision to relocate notorious gangsters to the Island Jail. The organization has been the sole voice opposing the deportation of criminals to Andaman Jail and recently met with Mr. Devesh Chandra Srivastav, Director General of Police of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, to express their serious apprehensions about the safety and security of the islands.
Mr. Rajesh Kumar Mazumdar, during the press conference, highlighted several key points that illustrate the organization’s concerns. He emphasized that the islands have evolved into a closely-knit society over the years, with minor crimes being the norm and major crimes occurring infrequently. Introduction of notorious criminals could exacerbate existing issues, such as unemployment, drug abuse, and limited growth in the tourism industry.
The geographical location of the islands holds significant strategic importance in terms of national security, given their proximity to Southeast Asian countries. The security infrastructure must be reinforced to counter potential threats arising from increased international interactions and port activities.
Mr. Mazumdar further expressed concerns about the impact on the islands’ aboriginal tribes and the risk of organized crime syndicates establishing a presence, leading to an increase in criminal activities. He also raised apprehensions about the potential enticement of unemployed individuals and vulnerable youth into criminal activities, both locally and beyond the islands.
The organization fears that the thriving tourism industry could be adversely affected by vices such as gambling, flesh trade, and extortion, introduced by these criminals. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential infiltration of organized crime into vital sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and the smuggling of natural resources.
The Hindu Rastra Shakthi urged the Government of India and the Home Ministry to reconsider the decision and explore alternative locations for the relocation of these criminals, such as Kerala, West Bengal, or Tamil Nadu, in the Southern Group of India.
Mr. Angshuman Roy added that while they have full confidence in the Defense Force and Andaman Police, this decision could significantly impact the islands’ culture and peace. The organization vehemently opposes this move and has urged the Andaman administration and the Government of India to reconsider the implications of this decision on the region’s security and social fabric.
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