Rabindranath Biswas
Diglipur, Nov. 21: After the conclusion of the dharna at Mayabunder, the bus carrying the PRI members from Mayabunder to Diglipur met with an accident yesterday.
According to information, the PRI members were returning from Mayabunder to Diglipur after the dharna in a STS bus in the evening yesterday when the bus dashed a drain and went off the road, and as the impact of the accident the PRI members on board the bus sustained injuries. The accident took place at around 05.30 PM 2/3 kms off Mohanpur at a turning in a jungle area on the way to Diglipur. However, Mr. Tapas Roy, Zilla Parishad Member, Rangat hurried to the spot soon after getting the information of the accident. The other PRI members when they heard the news also went to the spot. After reaching the accident site, the ZPM informed the SHO, Mayabunder and informed him about the accident. The SHO then informed the Mayabunder hospital and requested to dispatch an ambulance to the accident site. Mr. Tapas Roy as well as other leaders reached the spot at around 06.30 PM and arranged another bus for the PRI members bound for Diglipur who then reached Diglipur by the arranged bus. Two PRI members reportedly got injured of major type while others got minor injuries and bruises. And since it was night time, it was hard to make an estimate of the injuries; besides, everyone was in a hurry to reach home, the ZPM said. The ambulance also reached the spot and carried out the first aid which gave the injured PRI members an instant relief. According to the ZPM, the bus was found in a critical position; and if there was no drain, there was ample chances that the bus would have fallen in the gorge, the ZPM said. However, luckily nothing of that sort happened and they all survived a major accident, Mr. Tapas Roy said. The ZPM alleged that it appeared to him that the bus driver was reportedly drunk/intoxicated, the ZPM alleged. The bus was running at an over speed as there were marks of the tyres of the bus, the ZPM further said.
Archives for November 21, 2023
Protest Continues at Mayabunder as PRI Members Seek Redressal for Long-standing Grievances in Mayabunder
Vikramaditya
Mayabunder, Nov. 21: In a display of frustration and seeking attention for their long-pending issues, a substantial number of PRI members from North and Middle Andaman continued their protest even today for the second day. Today going a step ahead they staged a chakka Jam at the Panighat Junction in Mayabunder.
The PRI members expressed their dissatisfaction with the lack of response from the Rural Development Secretary regarding their concerns. They alleged that despite repeated requests for a meeting, the Secretary had not made time to address their issues. The primary demands included the devolution of power to PRI’s under the 73rd Constitution Amendment Act of 1993, advocating for equal rights and opportunities comparable to South Andaman.
The protesters emphasized the urgent need for the proper construction of NH-4 from Baratang to Diglipur, aligning with the standards set for South Andaman. A call for a CBI inquiry into related matters was also voiced. Participants demanded the appointment of medical specialist doctors and technicians at District Hospital, Mayabunder, ensuring proper medicine availability. Other demands included the immediate construction of Rural Roads under PMGSY, appointment of teachers in all schools, requirement and faculty introduction at MGGC Mayabunder, and the re-engagement of all 45 DRMs in Zilla Parishad North & Middle Andaman. Demands encompassed the declaration of Areca nut (supari) as a state crop for crop insurance, acquisition of new buses, immediate allotment of Stone Quarry, and ensuring the proper supply of LPG connections.
As per sources the Assistant Commissioner of Mayabunder intervened to convince the protesters to withdraw their demonstration. Later in the evening, the protesting PRI members received assurance from the Rural Development Secretary. The Secretary committed to discussing the issues with the Chief Secretary upon their return to Port Blair, with a scheduled meeting by November 25. Consequently, the “Chakka Jam” was withdrawn at 5:30 PM.
While the assurance provided temporary relief, the PRI members warned of intensified protests if their issues are not addressed by the administration, with a planned escalation on December 3, 2023.
Foundation stone for Three Important projects under MPLADS laid at Shaheed Dweep
Port Blair, Nov. 21:The Member of Parliament, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Shri. Kuldeep Rai Sharma today laid the foundation stone for three important projects at Shaheed Dweep.
The three projects are construction of a waiting shed with sitting facilities at parking space of APWD at Natural Bridge, Laxmanpur, W.No.1, Saheed Dweep; Construction of two open bathrooms without roof adjoining to the existing Ringwell at Ward No.2, Neil Kendra and construction of Open shed covering Hollow blocks at burning ghat, Ramnagar, ward number 01, Saheed Dweep.
The work under MPLADS funds was sanctioned by the Member of Parliament following demand raised by people of the area.
Large number of public, PRI members and officials were present during these foundation laying ceremonies.
Celebrating the Unstoppable Spirit of Mr Kamal Raju
Port Blair, Nov 21: Against all odds, Kamal from Shape Up gym, Andaman & Nicobar Islands fearlessly stepped onto the grand stage of Sheru Classic held on 19th November 2023 in Mumbai, facing off against some of the nation’s most elite bodybuilders.
He displayed unparalleled determination, showing that the size of heart matters more than the size of origin. It takes courage to represent a small state on a grand scale. Congratulations for representing not just yourself but the spirit of every individual who dares to dream big.
Vishal Jolly met Mr. Bhupendra Yadav, Union Minister for Environment raises two vital issues pertaining to A & N Islands
Port Blair, Nov 21: Mr. Vishal Jolly, National Executive Member-BJP today met Mr. Bhupendra Yadav, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India at New Delhi.
Mr. Jolly raised two vital issues pertaining to A & N Islands, as indicated under:-
1. Firstly, the issue with respect of early notifications of Re-Constitution of State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) and State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC), A & N Islands was raised before the Minister. He pointed out that in order to Re-Constitute the aforementioned Authority & Committee, recently the proposed names of its members were forwarded by the A & N Administration before the Ministry for its approval and the same is pending for its approval and subsequent notification.
He further enlightened the Minister that unless and until the said committee is re-constituted and notified, the Quarry allotment cannot be finalised and because of non-availability of quarry products/stone aggregates, the entire infrastructural developmental activities are in a standstill. Therefore he earnestly requested the Minister to expedite the process and notify the same by passing appropriate directions to the concerned officials.
2. The second issue is Mr. Jolly raised was that of collection and storage of “Trochus Niloticus’ ‘ which are banned in A & N Islands. This particular sea shell is available in abundance in our territorial water limits and the same keeps flowing away to other neighbouring Country’s territorial water limits, if not collected within a specified time. The ban over this particular sea wealth has already been lifted from several other prominent coastal States of our Country.
He further appraised the Minister that there are a large number of craftsmen and artisans who carve out several kinds of highly valuable handicrafts out of this sea wealth. Therefore these artisans and craftsmen would be largely benefited if the ban is lifted from this particular sea shell. He therefore humbly requested for lifting the ban from Trochus Niloticus in A & N Islands.
After hearing & discussing these two issues, the Minister has immediately directed the concerned officials to firstly ensure expeditious completion of pending official work pertaining to the approval of Re-Constitution of State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) and State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) for its early notification.
Secondly, the Minister also gave his positive thoughts regarding lifting of ban over “Trochus Niloticus” and assured that he would forthwith call for a report regarding this issue and take a positive decision in this regard at the earliest.
The BJP State Unit is optimistically hopeful of the positive assurances given by the Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav and expects that the issues raised would be sorted out soon.
Stolen Jewellery Worth Approx. 7 Lakhs Handed Over to the Victim in PS Aberdeen Theft Case
Port Blair, Nov 21: In a significant breakthrough, the Aberdeen Police team has successfully resolved a major jewelry theft case, leading to the arrest of the prime suspect and handing over of the recovered stolen gold worth approx. 7-8 lakhs to the complainant.
On October 16, 2023, Mrs. Plasida Minj reported the theft of approximately 136 grams of gold ornaments from her residence at Ambika Residency, 10 FMC Road, Prem Nagar, Port Blair. In response, the Aberdeen Police Station registered a case (FIR No. 283/23) under Section 380 of the Indian Penal Code, with SI P.K. Jabbar spearheading the investigation alongwith a Special team comprising of PC/ Neelkant, PC/ Mohd. Raffique and PC/Nikita under the supervision of Insp Girish Kumar, SHO PS Aberdeen.
The investigation unfolded with a thorough spot inspection, including collaboration with forensic experts, as well as scrutiny of financial and communication records. Initial enquiries at pawn shops and jewelry shops yielded no significant leads.
A breakthrough occurred with the identification of the suspect, Priyanka, who had exchanged stolen gold at a local Jewellery shop. Further tracing led to another Jewellery shop, where additional stolen items were sold and subsequently recovered. The suspect, Priyanka, confessed to the theft, leading to the seizure of stolen and newly purchased gold ornaments worth Approx.7 lakhs.
The seized articles were handed over to the complainant on 20/11/23 after obtaining release order the court by Mr. Kalaivanan R, IPS, SP South Andaman and Mr. Sunny Gupta, IPS, SDPO South Andaman. The complainant expressed her gratitude towards Andaman and Nicobar Police for their professional investigation and helping in recovery of stolen articles. This successful resolution underscores the dedication of the police force in ensuring justice for the citizens of South Andaman.
The general public is requested to share information pertaining to any crime or other illegal activities to Police at 112, 03192-232100, 03192-233077 & 03192- 232400. The identity of the informant will be kept secret.
Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, TM, COMCG (A&N) will be relinquishing command of ICG Region (A&N) on 22 Nov 23, after a successful tenure of 16 months
Port Blair, Nov 21: Under the dynamic leadership of IG Bhisham Sharma, TM, Coast Guard organisation in A&N Islands scaled greater heights and ensured impenetrable security and safety of these islands. During this tenure the Coast Guard further amalgamated with Andaman and Nicobar Command, aligning with the Op vision of C-in-C, ANC. The continuous impetus by the Flag Officer towards ICG operations resulted in 85% operational availability of ICG ships and aircrafts. High Op availability of ICG units resulted in rescue of 51 precious lives in distress at sea and apprehension of 80 Myanmarese poachers from 09 boats. The singular ability of Flag Officer to integrate service with society resulted in 6500 civilian volunteers participating in International Coastal Cleanup operations undertaken during the year 2022 and 2023 apart from various other GoI initiatives.
Being a visionary the Flag Officer had laid special emphasis on capacity building and augmentation of Op infrastructure as one of his key result areas. ICG infrastructure development gained tremendous momentum under the Flag Officer’s forward looking leadership.
IG Bhisham Sharma, TM will be moving to Mumbai, to take over as the Commander Coast Guard Region (West) with an area of responsibility for the maritime region which includes Daman, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and L&M islands.
In his farewell address the Flag officer appreciated the synergy and jointness exhibited by all personnel in the Quad Service environment which has ensured ICG achieving higher standards and indomitable reputation as a true savior at sea, protecting our coast and the marine ecosystem.
Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, TM, COMCG (A&N) will be relinquishing command of ICG Region (A&N) TM paid a farewell calls on Admiral D K Joshi Lt. Governor, A&N Islands
Port Blair, Nov 21: On relinquishing charge after about 16 months as CG Commander, Coast Guard Region, A&N Islands and proceeding for his next assignment IG Bhisham Sharma, TM paid a farewell call on Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), Lt. Governor, A&N Islands and Vice-Chairman, Islands Development Agency today at Raj Niwas. Lt. Governor thanked him for his service & support rendered to A&N Administration.
ANTCC President Urges Director of Health Services to reconsider the Abrupt Withdrawal of Patient Care Attendants in G.B Pant Hospital
Port Blair, Nov 21: The President of the Andaman & Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee Mr. Rangalal Halder raises serious concerns about the sudden termination of services of professional patient care attendants in G.B Pant Hospital.
In a letter addressed to the Director of Health Services, A & N Administration, Mr. Halder expressed his deep dismay and highlighted that the Medical Department’s decision to halt the services of private patient care attendants without prior notice has created significant challenges for families in need of long-term patient care support.
He emphasizes the vital role played by over 100 patient care attendants in the private sector, to help the families who are unable to take care of the patients on the long term basis. The sudden termination of this service has largely affected the persons who are unable to take care of the patient.
He has also stressed the importance of providing alternative arrangements and due intimation to families affected by the abrupt cessation.
In a plea for reconsideration, Mr. Halder urges the Director of Health Services to review the decision and to formulate a policy that regulates and regularizes the services of patient care attendants at GB Pant Hospital.
Doordarshan Kendra, Port Blair to telecast a Live phone-in programme on the Topic – Allergic Rhinitis and Sinusitis
Port Blair, Nov 21: Doordarshan Kendra, Port Blair will telecast a Live phone-in programme on the Topic – “Allergic Rhinitis and Sinusitis” on 22.11.2023 (Wednesday) from 5:00 pm to 05:30 pm. Dr. Gurumani S, Professor and HOD ENT, ANIIMS, will be the expert in the Studio answering the queries of the viewers.
Viewers can participate in this LIVE Phone-in programme by dialling on Phone No 244745 or 217213.