Port Blair, Aug 24: In a gesture of appreciation, members of the local print media today honored Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, the Member of Parliament, at a modest function held in the Media Room at the Government Press, South Point.
During the event, Mr. Ray attentively listened to the issues raised by representatives of the local media. He assured them that he would advocate for their concerns at the highest levels. Emphasizing the critical role of a free press in societal progress, Mr. Ray pledged to bring their issues and grievances to the attention of the top officials of the Union Territory (UT) administration and to raise these matters in Parliament.
He stressed that the media serves as a crucial voice for society and that its concerns should be acknowledged and addressed by the UT administration and its various departments. Mr. Ray underscored the importance of resolving the grievances of the print media in a manner that aligns with their interests.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the perceived neglect by the UT Administration towards elected representatives, including Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members, Municipal Councillors, and the media, Mr. Ray voiced his disappointment. He noted that even as a Member of Parliament, he has not always been treated in accordance with protocol. Nonetheless, he committed to continue raising issues in the Lok Sabha that affect the people of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Highlighting his efforts in Parliament, Mr. Ray informed the gathering that his request for a fresh survey to update the Other Backward Classes (OBC) list in the Islands has been approved, with work already underway.
Mr. Ray also expressed concern over the limited funds allocated by the UT Administration for development in the Islands. He pointed out that while the central government has allocated a budget of approximately Rs 5,900 crore for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the majority of these funds are used for salaries and oil purchases. Only Rs 400 crore is available for development activities, which he argued is insufficient.
Additionally, Mr. Ray condemned the recent violence against the Hindu minority in Bangladesh and criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for remaining silent on the issue.
The MP also expressed concern over the growing issue of drug consumption and trafficking in the Islands. He voiced particular dissatisfaction with the quality of healthcare services provided by the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences (ANIIMS). On a positive note, Mr. Ray shared that Oil India Ltd is planning to commence drilling operations in at least three locations in the Islands, a move he believes will bring economic prosperity to the region.
