Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has expressed worries about the Great Nicobar Island Project in a letter to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. He highlighted issues related to environmental clearance, tribal rights, and the project’s strategic justifications. Ramesh pointed out discrepancies in the environmental clearances and misrepresentation of tribal rights in the project’s FAQs.
In his communication, Ramesh emphasized that the project, labeled as a commercial venture, is facing criticism for its potential ecological impact. He stressed the importance of strengthening national defense while acknowledging the need to showcase India’s strategic capabilities. Ramesh suggested alternative defense infrastructure options in the island region, including existing assets like INS Baaz and other facilities that could be expanded with lesser environmental costs.
Ramesh criticized the proposed transhipment port and township within the Great Nicobar Island Project, stating that they do not significantly enhance military capabilities. He urged the Defence Minister to consider alternative proposals put forth by naval officers to avoid what he termed as an impending ecological disaster.
