Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 16 February 2025
Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray, has made an urgent appeal to Union Home Minister Mr. Amit Shah, seeking adequate compensation for farmers whose lands were submerged in the 2004 Tsunami. The appeal is based on the recommendations of the Vivek Rae Committee, constituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2017 to examine land matters in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The committee, chaired by retired IAS officer Mr. Vivek Rae, was tasked with reviewing critical land-related issues, including compensation for tsunami-affected farmers, the adequacy of previous relief payments, and the regularization of excess land occupied by settlers before 1961. Despite submitting its comprehensive report, the committee’s recommendations remain unimplemented, leaving affected farmers in prolonged distress.
Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray emphasized that the committee’s findings clearly stated that the compensation previously provided to farmers was grossly inadequate and recommended enhanced payments. However, even two decades after the disaster, the affected farmers continue to wait for justice, with many having passed away without receiving any relief.
The MP further pointed out that while some of the submerged lands have been naturally reclaimed, additional restoration is possible through simple engineering interventions such as sluice gates and bunds. Yet, bureaucratic delays and administrative inaction have prolonged the suffering of these farmers, he lamented.
Additionally, Mr. Ray underscored the committee’s recommendation to regularize excess land occupied by pre-1961 settlers. He noted that this decision should have been implemented without further consultation, as it aligns with principles of fairness and equity.
Expressing deep concern over the long-pending issue, Mr. Bishnu Pada Ray stated, “These farmers lost their lands due to a natural disaster beyond their control. The government must act now to provide long-overdue relief and uphold justice. Further delays will only compound their suffering.”
In light of this, the MP has urged the Home Ministry to expedite the consultation process, implement the committee’s recommendations, and ensure that the affected farmers receive the compensation they rightfully deserve.