Saurabh Adhikari & Neeraj
Sri Viaya Puram, Dec. 18: Mr. Shivananand Bairagi, former Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Pahalgaon, North and Middle Andaman, has emerged victorious in a legal battle challenging the no-confidence motion passed against him. The Kolkata High Court Circuit Bench at Port Blair recently ruled in his favour, deeming the motion unconstitutional and a violation of Panchayati Raj regulations.
The no-confidence motion, which was moved against Mr. Bairagi, allegedly bypassed essential legal protocols outlined under the Panchayati Raj Regulation and constitutional provisions. Speaking to the media, Mr. Bairagi explained that the process not only disregarded established norms but also failed to consider his side of the argument. “The administration officials involved in this process did not follow constitutional guidelines or the Panchayati Raj rules,” he said.
Determined to fight this injustice, Mr. Bairagi consulted Vikalp, a legal consultancy in Port Blair. Advocate S. Mini, nominated by the consultancy, represented his case in the Kolkata High Court Circuit Bench. On December 13, 2024, the court issued a landmark judgment, nullifying the no-confidence motion and directing the Executive Officer to reinstate Mr. Bairagi as Pradhan within four weeks after rectifying the irregularities.
“This judgment is not just my victory; it is a historic day for Panchayati Raj institutions across Andaman and Nicobar Islands,” Mr. Bairagi remarked. He emphasized that the ruling sends a strong message to the administration to uphold democratic principles and adhere to constitutional processes.
Mr. Bairagi acknowledged the support of his community, family, and legal team, particularly the main director of Vikalp, Mr. Sanjay Balan, and Advocate Mini. “This victory is a testament to our collective fight for justice and the rights enshrined in the 73rd Amendment of the Constitution,” he said.
Reflecting on the broader implications of the case, Mr. Bairagi highlighted systemic issues in the administration’s approach to Panchayati Raj institutions. He accused certain officials of trying to derail decentralization efforts and undermine elected representatives. “This was an attempt to break our morale, but we have shown that we stand firm in our fight for constitutional rights,” he stated.
The ruling has energized elected representatives across the islands, reaffirming their rights and responsibilities under the Panchayati Raj framework. Mr. Bairagi expressed hope that the verdict would inspire young leaders to join politics with a focus on transparency and public welfare.
“This decision upholds the principles of democracy and justice, ensuring that no elected representative is unlawfully targeted in the future,” he concluded.
Archives for December 18, 2024
MG Andaman becomes the first OEM to deliver EV vehicles on the Inaugural Day
Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov 18: In the history of the Islands, MG Andaman authorized dealer of JSW MG MOTOR India Limited has become the first OEM to deliver EV vehicles in the inaugural delivery. MG ANDAMAN had organized a grand delivery event for the unveiling & delivery of two Electric vehicles – WINDSOR EV & ZS EV.
The chief guest for the event was Mr. Chandra Shekhar Raj, Director of Rural Self Employment Training Institute in SBI, Sri Vijaya Puram. MG Andaman extends their heartiest congratulations to the two esteemed customers & their families. JSW MG MOTOR has the portfolio of cars ranging from Rs. 6.99 lacs to Rs. 38.80 lacs. Their Dealer Principal Mrs. Urvee Lall highlighted the key point of building the charging infrastructure on the islands. They are focused on providing seamless charging facilities on the islands going upto Diglipur and also covering Swaraj and Shaheed Dweep.
Fugitive, wanted in POCSO case ‘Gullu’ Arrested, Bringing Relief to Diglipur Residents
Vikramaditya
Diglipur, Dec. 17: In a major breakthrough, the Infamous fugitive and wanted in POCSO case, known as ‘Gullu’, who had been evading the authorities for weeks, was arrested today in Austin Basti, Diglipur. The arrest has brought a sense of relief to the local population, particularly in areas like Mohanpur and Kalighat, which were affected by Gullu’s activities. The full name of ‘Gullu’ is Mr. Sooraj Mazumder.
According to reports, the alert residents of Austin Basti played a crucial role in Gullu’s capture. Upon spotting him in the area, they acted swiftly, coordinating to detain him and immediately informing the police. The authorities arrived promptly, taking Gullu into custody and transporting him to the police station for further proceedings.
As of now, Gullu is being taken to Kali Ghat Police Station, where officials will begin the formal process of documenting charges and initiating legal action against him. Sources confirm that he will soon be presented in court to face justice.
This arrest has brought a sense of peace to the residents of Diglipur, who had been living in fear due to Gullu’s activities. “We can finally sleep peacefully tonight,” said a relieved resident of Mohanpur.
Member of Palriament Highlights Key Issues of Andaman & Nicobar Islands through MP’s Redressal Mechanism
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 18: The Narendra Modi Government had recently introduced the ‘MP’s Redressal Mechanism’ which enables all MPs to address the issues, provide feedback on policies and engage with governance through groups chaired by Union Ministers.
In line with this Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament, A & N Islands has submitted a letter to Mr. Jyothiraditya M. Scindia, Minister of Communication and Development of North Eastern Region, Government of India, highlighting major issues pertaining to A & N Islands for its early solution at the appropriate level.
Subsequent to the receipt of the letter from MP, Mr. Scindia forwarded the copies of MP’s letter with his comment and observations and has requested the concerned Ministers to give immediate attention on the issues raised MP and find solution to all the issues.
In his letter sent to Mr. Manohar Lal Khattar, Minister of Housing, Urban Affairs and Power to take appropriate action to resolve the matters of Land Conversion, Circle rates and Stamp Duty in amicable manner.
Mr. Ray in his said letter had stated that Land conversion has been stopped from 2018 without any reason. Similarly the issue of excessively high Circle rates and noncompliance of law in the matter was also mentioned in MP’s letter. The reintroduction of Circle rates without any consultation and despite of intervention of Supreme Court, was also opposed by MP in the letter.
In a separate letter to Jagat Prakash Nadda, Minister of Health & Family Welfare , Mr. Scindia has requested him to immediately intervene to ensure augmentation of Health Infrastructure in A & N Islands Health Facilities.
The MP in his elaborated letter has highlighted the deploring condition of hospitals in A & N Islands and demanded that at least 6 Specialist in General Medicine and 1 Specialist in Cardiology be posted from CHS immediately on duty cum tour for 3 months on rotation basis till the posts are filled in ANIIMS. Similarly the MP has strongly batted for taking over of ANIIMS by Health Ministry for providing better management and health care services and also for providing high standard medical education to students.
Additionally Mr. Scindia wrote a separate letter to Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman, Finance Minister, requesting her attention over the MP’s complaint regarding non release of sufficient funds to elected bodies and alleged withdrawal of powers of PRI institutions and Municipal body.
Mr. Ray has stated in his letter that the powers bestowed under the PRI and Municipal regulations have been curtailed and that the fund allocation as per 4th UT Finance Commission is not being done thus disallowing smooth functioning PRI’s and Municipal Council in A & N Islands.
Similarly Mr. Scindia has also written to Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports and Shipping citing the issues put forth by MP about the sorry state of Port Infrastructure in A & N Islands and denial of timely berthing of Coastal Ships at Chennai Port.
The letter of the MP to Mr. Scindia has categorical reference to the alleged cutting of wings of ALHW under conspiracy. In his letter he has alleged that the 32 ports constructed by ALHW is failing as no funds are being allocated for repair of jetties.
Similarly MP has also invited attention over a new problem of denial of timely berthing of Coastal Ships of M/s TCI Seaways at Chennai Port. This has led to greater problem of scarcity of Essential Commodities in A & N Islands. Even the supplies of defense services and the PDS items are getting delayed due the unfavorable actions by Chennai Port Authorities.
Mr. Scindia has also written to Mr. Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport & Highways seeking his intervention on issues raised by MP regarding construction of bridge between Chatham Island and Bambooflat.
Mr. Ray in his letter has demanded the fulfillment of a long pending demand for the construction of bridge between Chatham Island and Bambooflat.
Indonesian Ambassador Explores Bilateral Trade and Tourism Opportunities with Lt. Governor
Port Blair, Dec 18: Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia, H.E. Ina Krisnamurthi during her visit to A&N Islands, called on Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), the Lt. Governor, A&N Islands and Vice-Chairman, Islands Development Agency today at Raj Niwas. Discussed opportunities to enhance direct trade and other avenues for bilateral cooperation including boosting Tourism, Economic activities, Transshipment, Cruise Ships and International Flights.
Member of PMEAC Discusses Mega Infrastructure and Tourism Projects with Lt. Governor at Raj Niwas
Port Blair, Dec 18: Shri Sanjeev Sanyal, Member Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council on visit to A&N Islands called on Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), the Lt. Governor, A&N Islands and Vice-Chairman, Islands Development Agency today at Raj Niwas. Discussed various ongoing mega Infrastructure, Tourism, Hospitality & Developmental Projects being driven by Andaman & Nicobar Administration under the aegis of Islands Development Agency and proposal for the follow-on phases.
District Administration, South Andaman Imposes Rs.1.24 Crore Penalty for Illegal Extraction Of Minor Minerals
Port Blair, Dec 18: The District Administration, South Andaman, has taken strict action against the illegal extraction and transportation of minor minerals in violation of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Minor Mineral Rules, 2012, and the Land Revenue and Land Reforms Regulation, 1966.
A case was registered and notices issued to the defaulter. However, he failed to appear before the authorities or justify his actions. Consequently, a penalty of ₹1,24,88,000/- (Rupees One Crore Twenty-Four Lakhs and Eighty-Eight Thousand) has been imposed on the quarry operator for the illegal extraction and transportation of minor minerals, calculated as per Section 34 of the A & N Islands Minor Mineral Rules, 2012, and Section 201(6) of the ANI Land Revenue and Land Reforms Regulation, 1966 and instructed to deposit the penalty amount with the Cashier, District Office, South Andaman, within seven days of receiving the order. Failure to comply will result in the penalty being recovered as arrears of land revenue, and necessary entries will be made in the Record of Rights (RoR) of the violator’s landholding.
The District Administration reiterates its commitment to enforcing the law and safeguarding public resources. Stern warnings have been issued to the violator to desist from such illegal activities in the future, failing which stricter action will be taken.
The District Administration, South Andaman urges all stakeholders to adhere to the established rules and regulations to ensure sustainable and lawful use of resources. Any unauthorized extraction or transportation of minerals will be dealt with firmly to protect public and environmental interests.
To enhance public engagement in this critical mission, the District Administration, South Andaman has introduced accessible reporting mechanisms. Residents can confidentially report unauthorized encroachments or illegal mining or construction activities to the District Control Room at 03192-240127/238881/1070 or via WhatsApp at 9531888844. Informants are assured of complete anonymity and protection.
Reem Indane Aims for 100% Digitalized LPG Booking to Ensure Timely Deliveries
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 18: Reem Indane, in partnership with the Directorate of Civil Supplies and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), has launched enhanced digital booking methods to achieve 100% digitalized LPG cylinder bookings. This initiative is part of the Government of India’s Digital India vision, spearheaded by Hon’ble Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, ensuring seamless and timely delivery of LPG cylinders to households.
To make LPG booking more accessible and efficient, the Government of India, through IOCL LPG distributors, has introduced several user-friendly digital options for customers to book LPG refills.
Digital Booking Options:
Missed Call Booking: Customers can give a missed call from their registered mobile number to 8454955555.
Mobile App Booking: Book LPG refills through the IndianOil One mobile app.
UPI Payment Booking: Customers can use UPI payment methods for a seamless booking experience.
IVRS/SMS Booking: LPG refills can also be booked via SMS or IVRS by dialing 7718955555.
Upon booking through any of these options, customers are requested to provide their booking ID to the concerned area sales in-charge for the immediate delivery of LPG cylinders.
Commitment to Excellence:
Mr. T. Santhosh, General Manager of Reem Indane Services (RIS), expressed gratitude to customers for their trust and support, saying:
“Our mission is to ensure hassle-free LPG booking and timely delivery to every household. We value the feedback and suggestions from our customers as they help us continually improve our services. With the support of the Directorate of Civil Supplies and IOCL, we remain committed to delivering the highest quality service to the public.”
Customer Support:
For further inquiries or assistance, customers can:
Call us at: 9434271222 / 9531944444
Godown Contact: 8900983583 / 8900999992
Visit our showroom: RGT Road
Reem Indane thanks its valued customers for their continued cooperation and trust and looks forward to providing uninterrupted LPG services through these efficient digitalized methods.
Kuldeep Rai Sharma Appeals for Enhanced Children’s Play Equipment at Marina Park
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 18: Former Member of Parliament, Kuldeep Rai Sharma, has written to the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, urging the installation of additional children’s play equipment at Marina Park, a popular and well-loved public space in the city.
In his letter, he emphasized that there is an opportunity to further enhance Marina Park, especially for young visitors and families.
Marina Park, with its serene surroundings, has long been a gathering place for islanders and tourists alike, particularly during weekends and holidays. It is a popular destination for families, including many children. While the park already boasts a variety of play structures, he believes the addition of new play equipment would provide further recreational opportunities for children.
The proposed additions include a toy train, walking rolling balloons, sandboxes, swan rides, space shuttle rides, a family roller coaster, aquatic slide combinations, stents pool, and other similar attractions. According to the former MP, these new facilities would not only delight young visitors but also contribute to the administration’s vision of creating inclusive, family-friendly public spaces across the islands.
“This initiative would provide children with more recreational choices, fostering an environment where families can bond and enjoy their time together,” said Mr. Sharma. By enhancing Marina Park with these new attractions, the Administration will further demonstrate its commitment to the well-being of island families and visitors, he added.
He requested the Chief Secretary to consider the feasibility of implementing these proposed upgrades, which would enhance the park’s appeal and solidify its status as a cherished destination for both locals and tourists.
43rd IND-INDO CORPAT: Successful Completion of Harbour and Sea Phases
Sri Vijaya Puram, Dec 18: The 43rd India-Indonesia Coordinated Patrol (IND-INDO CORPAT) commenced on 10 Dec 24 at Sabang Port, Indonesia, marking a significant milestone in bilateral maritime cooperation. The Opening Ceremony featured the arrival of Indian Naval Ships INS Kesari and LCU 57, which were warmly received in a traditional manner by the Commander Maritime Security Task Force Indonesia (CO MSTFI). IN ships remained at Sabang from 10-12 Dec 24, while Indonesian (IDN) units visited Sri Vijayapuram from 16-18 Dec 24 for the harbour phase. This phase involved the reception of IN units at Sabang and IDN units at Sri Vijayapuram, followed by official calls and the Closing Ceremony. Additional activities included cross-training between IN and IDN units and engaging sports fixtures.
The sea phase saw dynamic joint exercises between INS Kesari, LCU 57, KRI Bung Karno-369, IN Dornier, and Indonesian aircraft MPA CN235, covering joint patrolling of the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), Station Keeping By Distance Line (SKBDL), aerial tracking and Passex, enhancing operational synergy between the two navies.
Her Excellency Ms. Ina Hagniningtyas Krishnamurthi, the Indonesian Ambassador to India, visited Sri Vijayapuram on 17 Dec 24, where she hosted a dinner onboard KRI Bung Karno-369, celebrating the 75th anniversary of India-Indonesia diplomatic relations. The event was attended the Chief of Staff (COS) Andaman and Nicobar Command and officers of Naval Component. The visit provided IDN personnel with a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of India, particularly the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, through visits to historical landmarks and sites of cultural significance.