Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 14 August 2025
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Andaman & Nicobar Islands has formally requested the Union Territory Administration to elevate the upcoming Onam festival from a Restricted Holiday to a Public Holiday.
In a letter to the Chief Secretary, BJP A&N Islands Chief Spokesperson Dr. T.K. Jijith Rekh recalled that Onam had earlier been declared a Public Holiday by the then Lt. Governor, Mr. Vakkom Purushothaman — a decision warmly welcomed by the public.
Noting that Onam, to be celebrated on September 5 this year, holds deep cultural significance for the Malayali community and is also embraced by various other communities across the islands, Dr. Jijith said, “Restoring Onam as a Public Holiday will be a gesture of respect towards cultural diversity and inclusivity, reflecting the true spirit of unity in our islands.”
The BJP has urged the Administration to take an early decision to allow residents to celebrate the festival in its full spirit.
