Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 16: Member of Parliament, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, has made an urgent appeal to the Union Home Minister, Mr. Amit Shah for compensation to farmers whose lands were submerged in the sea following the devastating 2004 Tsunami. This appeal is based on the recommendations of the Vivek Rae Committee, constituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2017 to examine land matters in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The committee, chaired by Mr. Vivek Rae, IAS (Retd.), was tasked with reviewing critical land-related issues, including compensation for tsunami-affected farmers, the adequacy of previous relief payments and the regularization of excess land occupied by settlers prior to 1961. Despite the committee submitting its comprehensive report, its recommendations remain unimplemented, leaving affected farmers in a state of prolonged distress.
Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray emphasized that the committee’s findings clearly stated that the compensation provided to the farmers was grossly inadequate and recommended enhanced compensation. However, more than two decades after the disaster, these farmers continue to wait for justice, with many having passed away without receiving any relief.
The MP also pointed out that while some of the submerged lands have been naturally reclaimed, further restoration is possible through simple engineering interventions such as sluice gates and bunds. Yet, despite these feasible solutions, bureaucratic delays and inaction have prolonged the farmers’ suffering.
Furthermore, Mr. Ray highlighted the committee’s recommendation on regularizing excess land occupied by pre-1961 settlers. This decision, he noted, should have been implemented without further consultation, as it aligns with principles of fairness and equity.
Expressing deep concern over the prolong pending issue, the MP stated, “These farmers lost their lands due to a natural disaster beyond their control. The government must act now to provide long-overdue relief and uphold justice. Further delays would only compound their suffering.” In the above said context, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray has urged the Home Ministry to expedite the consultation process, implement the committee’s recommendations and ensure that affected farmers receive the compensation they rightfully deserve.
