Congress alleges contradictions in Centre’s assurances on Great Nicobar project

The Congress on Saturday escalated its criticism of the Centre’s ambitious infrastructure push on Great Nicobar Island, alleging contradictions in the government’s assurances regarding the impact on local tribal communities.

In a statement, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticised the government’s approach, arguing that development initiatives were moving ahead without sufficient consideration for indigenous populations. “The bulldozer moves on, unmindful of the concerns of the local communities,” he said, accusing the Centre of sidelining local voices.

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Ramesh further highlighted what he termed a clear inconsistency in the government’s position. “There is a fundamental contradiction here: the Modi government claims that the Great Nicobar infrastructure project will not disturb or displace tribes—then why is there a relocation plan? Clearly, the claim is a lie,” he stated.

The proposed Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project, which is being positioned as a major strategic and economic initiative, includes plans for a transshipment port, an airport, a township, and power infrastructure.

The government has maintained that the project will drive development while protecting the rights and habitats of indigenous communities such as the Shompen and Nicobarese.

Despite these assurances, opposition parties and activists have repeatedly raised concerns about the project’s environmental and social consequences, particularly its potential impact on ecologically sensitive areas and vulnerable tribal groups. They have called for greater transparency, wider public consultation, and stronger safeguards.

The government, however, has asserted that all necessary environmental clearances are in place and that steps have been taken to minimise disruption. Officials have also underlined the strategic significance of Great Nicobar Island, citing its proximity to key international shipping routes.

The latest remarks have added to the intensifying political debate over the project, with issues of development, environmental sustainability, and tribal rights continuing to remain at the forefront.