CPI(M) to Press for CBI Investigation into NH-4 Renovation and Middle Strait Bridge Construction

Tarun Karthick

Port Blair, 09 October 2023

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has taken a stern stance against the poor quality of work and corruption in the renovation of National Highway – 4 (NH4) and the construction of the Bridge at Middle Strait in North and Middle Andaman. In a meeting held on October 8, 2023, at Shaheed Bhavan, Anarkali, Port Blair, the CPI(M) Andaman & Nicobar State Organising Committee decided to demand a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigation into these projects, which have been under the purview of the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) for the last 5 to 6 years.

The party expressed its grave concerns regarding the alleged corruption surrounding the NH-4 renovation and Middle Strait Bridge construction projects, asserting that they have failed to meet the necessary standards. As part of their response, the CPI(M) has decided to initiate a widespread public awareness campaign highlighting the alleged failures of both the BJP-led government and the Member of Parliament from Congress in completing these crucial infrastructural developments in a timely and satisfactory manner.

In addition to demanding a CBI investigation, the CPI(M) has planned a territory-wide agitation, drawing attention to the deplorable state of roads, including NH-4, frequent power disruptions, and other local issues in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The party called upon its various units in the region to organise agitations to address local concerns.

During the meeting, the political situation in the islands was reviewed, leading to the conclusion that the BJP-led government had not adequately addressed the challenges faced by the islanders. Dr. Sujan Chakraborthy, Ex-Member of Parliament and Central Committee Member of the CPI(M), who was visiting Port Blair, criticised the Modi government for allegedly diverting attention away from pressing issues such as unemployment, poverty, and rising prices. Dr. Chakraborthy accused the BJP of attempting to undermine the Indian Constitution and noted a growing wealth gap between the poor and the super-rich under the Modi administration. He further accused the government of stifling opposition voices.

D. Ayyappan, Secretary of the State Organising Committee, presented a comprehensive report on the activities of the CPI(M) in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands since the last meeting held in June 2023. Nikunjo Biswas, a State Secretariat Member, presided over the meeting, which served as a platform for the party to voice its concerns and mobilise against what they perceive as government negligence and corruption in key development projects.