Sri Vijaya Puram | January 29, 2026
Tarun Karthick
Member of Parliament from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, has sought immediate stoppage of construction activities related to a proposed bar-cum-restaurant on land traditionally used as a Hindu cremation and burial ground at Foreshore Road here, alleging illegal diversion of protected government land and misuse of public funds.
In a representation addressed to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Secretary, Mr. Ray expressed serious concern over the continuation of construction on the site, which he stated has historically been earmarked and used for cremation and burial purposes by the Hindu community.
The MP alleged that the boundary wall of the cremation ground has been demolished and that a hillock traditionally used for burials has been excavated through near-vertical earth cutting. He further claimed that several graves exist in close proximity to the construction site, including that of Late Mr. R. Mohan, former State President of the Bharatiya Janata Party.
According to Mr. Ray, the land in question is “set apart” government land under the provisions of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Land Revenue & Land Reforms Regulation, 1966, reserved exclusively for burial and cremation purposes. He maintained that such land cannot be diverted for commercial use, including a bar or restaurant, without lawful allotment and due process.
Raising questions over the utilisation of Smart City funds, the MP alleged that public money is being used to create infrastructure intended for liquor-related commercial activity, which he termed a violation of public purpose and financial propriety. He also pointed to what he described as jurisdictional overreach by municipal authorities, stating that liquor licensing falls under a separate statutory framework.
Mr. Ray noted that objections to the project had earlier been raised by political parties, ward councillors, civil organisations and members of the public, following which a vigilance inquiry was reportedly ordered. However, he expressed concern that no effective action has been taken so far despite the sensitivity of the issue.
Terming the matter as serious and sensitive, involving religious dignity, rule of law and public trust, the MP demanded an immediate halt to all construction activities at the site and sought steps to secure the land to prevent further damage and expenditure of public funds.
He further called for the matter to be taken out of the purview of local authorities and handed over for an independent investigation, preferably by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), to ensure accountability in a fair and transparent manner. Mr. Ray also sought an immediate field inspection by senior officials along with representatives of local organisations and public bodies.
Warning that continued delay or inaction could aggravate the situation and deepen public discontent, the MP urged the Administration to take urgent corrective measures in the interest of law, justice and public confidence in governance.
