Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 09 November 2023
In a fervent display of discontent, the Andaman & Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee (ANTCC) orchestrated widespread protests, including a ”Chakka Jam” and a “Jail Bharo Andolan,” in three locations within the North & Middle Andaman District on Wednesday. The protests aimed to exert pressure on the Central Government and the Andaman & Nicobar Administration to address the deteriorating condition of the NH-4 road.
The protest in Rangat saw ANTCC President Mr. Rangalal Halder taking the lead, while in Diglipur, ANTCC Campaign Committee Chairman Mr. TSG Bhasker spearheaded the demonstration. Zilla Parishad Member Mr. Alagarswamy led the protest in Baratang.
The impact of the protests was palpable, with all types of vehicles ceasing operations and shops shutting down across Baratang, Rangat, and Diglipur. A substantial number of residents gathered at the protest sites, vocalising their demand for the reconstruction and repair of the dilapidated NH-4 road.
Congress leaders, including Mr. Rangalal Halder, Mr. TSG Bhasker, Mr. Alagarswamy, Ms. Mariyam Bibi, Mr. Mohd. Zubair, Mr. M.A Sajid, Mr. Sebastian Tirkey, Mr. Y. Joga Rao, and Mr. Ameer Bux, were taken into custody when they refused to discontinue their demonstration. They were subsequently brought to respective police stations and community halls.
The Congress leaders demanded immediate action on their long-standing request for the reconstruction and repair of NH-4. In Diglipur, Mr. TSG Bhasker handed over a representation letter to the Assistant Commissioner, urging swift measures. The letter included a 7-point charter of demands:
1. Assurance from the Administration on the early completion of NH-4 road.
2. Handing over of NH-4 road work to the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD).
3. Immediate allotment of additional funds by the Administration for the early completion of the NH-4 road.
4. Daily ship service and helicopter service to Kadamtala, Rangat, Mayabunder, and Diglipur until the road work is completed.
5. Visit of the Hon’ble Lt. Governor and Chief Secretary by road within a week to personally experience the hardship faced by the residents of Middle and North Andaman.
6. Immediate posting of senior specialists in Diglipur, Mayabunder, and Rangat to attend to patients unable to reach Port Blair for medical emergencies.
7. A written assurance by the Administration on all these demands.
The protests underscored the community’s frustration with the prolonged neglect of the NH-4 road, emphasising the urgent need for attention and resolution.