Congress MP Jairam Ramesh urges a thorough review of the Great Nicobar infrastructure project, citing potential ecological and human consequences.
Environmental Concerns and Procedural Violations
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh has raised serious concerns about the Great Nicobar infrastructure project, highlighting its potential for catastrophic ecological and human consequences. In a letter to Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, Ramesh called for the suspension of all project clearances and a thorough review, including by parliamentary committees.
Ramesh’s concerns encompass a range of issues, including the diversion of 13,075 hectares of forest land, the project’s location in a prohibited zone, and the potential impact on the vulnerable Shompen tribe. He has even suggested that the project could result in the “genocide” of the Shompen community.
Earthquake-Prone Zone and Opaque Operations
The location of the massive project in an earthquake-prone zone that experienced significant subsidence during the 2004 tsunami raises further concerns. Ramesh argues that this jeopardizes investments, infrastructure, and both human and ecological well-being.
Additionally, Ramesh has criticized the operations of the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) high-powered committee (HPC) as “opaque.” He pointed out discrepancies between the HPC’s conclusions and information submitted by the Andaman and Nicobar Coastal Management Authority, particularly regarding the project’s location within a prohibited coastal zone.
Neglect of Tribal Welfare and Legal Provisions
Ramesh also emphasized the project’s potential impact on the Shompen tribe, stating that the Island’s Shompen Policy, which prioritizes the tribe’s welfare in large-scale development proposals, was neglected. He argued that the project violates the Forest Rights Act, 2006, which empowers the Shompen as the sole authority to manage the tribal reserve.
Furthermore, Ramesh asserted that the tribal council of the islands was not adequately consulted, and they have since objected to the project and revoked their ‘no objection’ letter on the grounds of being misled.
A Call for Transparency and Accountability
Ramesh’s letter underscores the need for transparency, accountability, and a thorough review of the Great Nicobar infrastructure project. The potential ecological and human consequences, coupled with allegations of procedural violations and neglect of tribal welfare, demand a careful reassessment of the project’s viability and its adherence to legal and ethical standards.
Summary
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh has called for the suspension of all clearances for the Great Nicobar infrastructure project and a thorough review due to concerns about its potential ecological and human consequences. He highlighted issues such as forest land diversion, the project’s location in a prohibited zone, the impact on the Shompen tribe, and the lack of transparency in the NGT’s high-powered committee’s operations. Ramesh also emphasized the neglect of tribal welfare and legal provisions, urging for a reassessment of the project’s viability and adherence to ethical standards.
Key Learning Points
| Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Environmental Concerns | The Great Nicobar infrastructure project raises significant environmental concerns, including the diversion of forest land, its location in a prohibited zone, and the potential impact on the vulnerable Shompen tribe. |
| Procedural Violations | The project has been alleged to have been pushed through violating due process and sidestepping legal and constitutional provisions protecting tribal communities. |
| Neglect of Tribal Welfare | The project has been criticized for neglecting the welfare of the Shompen tribe and violating the Forest Rights Act, 2006. |
| Lack of Transparency | The operations of the National Green Tribunal’s high-powered committee have been criticized as opaque, with discrepancies between its conclusions and information submitted by other authorities. |
| Call for Review | Congress MP Jairam Ramesh has called for the suspension of all project clearances and a thorough review, including by parliamentary committees. |
Excerpt:
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh has called for the suspension of all clearances for the Great Nicobar infrastructure project and a thorough review due to concerns about its potential ecological and human consequences.
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
