Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 27 January 2024
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI (M)] has expressed deep condolences for the extensive loss of property suffered by numerous shopkeepers in a devastating fire that occurred in Rangat during the night of January 23, 2024. In an official letter dated January 26, 2024, addressed to the President/General Secretary of the Shyamsunder Temple Committee, which owns the land where the affected shops were located, D. Ayyappan, Secretary of the CPI (M) Andaman & Nicobar State Organising Committee, has urged the committee to consider constructing a modern shopping complex at the same site and allocate spaces to the affected shopkeepers.
Ayyappan emphasized the need for immediate action to rebuild the commercial infrastructure and alleviate the plight of the victims. In the letter, he assured the Temple Committee that the CPI (M) would actively engage with the Andaman & Nicobar Administration and financial institutions to secure assistance, including loans, for the construction of the shopping complex. This, he stressed, is essential to support the livelihoods of the numerous people affected by the fire.
The tragic incident resulted in the destruction of about 60 shops, leaving the shopkeepers grappling with significant losses in terms of both property and merchandise. CPI (M) Secretary D. Ayyappan acknowledged the overnight transformation of these individuals into financial distress and pledged the party’s unwavering support during this challenging time.
Ayyappan reiterated CPI (M)’s commitment to leaving no stone unturned in supporting the fire victims. The Party’s promise is to work collaboratively with relevant authorities to ensure the affected shopkeepers receive the assistance they need to overcome the aftermath of the fire accident and resume their livelihoods.