MP Urges Swift Action on Circle Rate Finalisation for Kerala Puram, VS Palli, and Smith Island Regions of North Andaman

Rohit Kumar

Port Blair, 25 August 2023

Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, the Member of Parliament , Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has called upon the Hon’ble Lt. Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to promptly establish the Circle Rate for Kerala Puram, VS Palli, and Smith Island regions of North Andaman.

Highlighting a significant issue raised by the inhabitants of these regions, particularly concerning the pending determination of the Circle Rate, Mr.. Sharma expressed deep concern regarding the absence of a definitive Circle Rate for land in these areas.

Citing Order No. 27412019/F. No. 3-21/SR/stamp Duty/2015, which was issued by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration on 22 October 2019, Mr. Sharma underscored the adverse impact of this delay in setting the Circle Rate. He explained that this delay has created substantial hardships for the local residents. Without an established Circle Rate, property transactions, even in cases of urgent necessity, cannot proceed. Consequently, this situation has inflicted substantial inconvenience and financial losses upon the populace residing in these regions.

Mr. Sharma emphasised that the Circle Rate for land sales has already been established for various other areas within the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, leaving Kerala Puram, VS Palli, and Smith Island regions in a state of uncertainty and disadvantage.

In light of these pressing concerns, Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma has urged the Hon’ble Lt. Governor to issue directives to the relevant department, requesting expedited efforts in finalising the Circle Rate for Kerala Puram, VS Palli, and Smith Island regions. This step, he contends, is vital to ensure the economic well-being and ease of property transactions for the residents of these regions.