Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 18 November 2023
In a crucial meeting held at Raj Niwas, Mr. Vishal Jolly, National Executive Member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), engaged with Admiral (Retd) D. K. Joshi, the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The discussion centered on pressing concerns affecting the islanders, pushing for immediate redressal of key issues that have significantly impacts the local populace.
Mr. Jolly highlighted a spectrum of challenges faced by the community, emphasising the urgency for prompt resolutions. Among the prominent issues deliberated during the meeting were:
1. Re-opening of All Quarries:
The non-operational status of quarries has triggered a standstill in infrastructural development across the islands. Mr. Jolly underscored that this situation has led to inflated prices for stone aggregates, disrupting building projects and burdening those with housing loans. The absence of quarry operations has also resulted in a prolonged unemployment crisis for daily-rated labourers. He urged for swift action to recommence quarry operations, citing the immense hardships faced by the populace.
2. Relaxation of Minimum Marking for Police Constable Recruitment:
Addressing the recruitment process for 389 Police Constable positions, Mr. Jolly advocated for a reconsideration of the minimum marking criteria. With less than 5% of candidates meeting the required marks, the recruitment process has encountered delays. He proposed a reduction in the minimum marks to facilitate the swift fulfilment of vacancies and accommodate aspiring candidates.
3. Restarting Land Conversion to House Sites and Commercial Use:
Mr. Vishal Jolly reiterated the demand for the resumption of land conversion/diversion for residential and commercial purposes. He stressed the economic challenges faced by both the general public and entrepreneurs due to the blockade in this process, advocating for the allocation of at least 500 sq. meters of land from each household for diversion.
4. Expedited Completion of National Highway-4:
Highlighting the deplorable condition of National Highway-4 (NH-4), Mr. Jolly urged the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor to intervene and expedite the pending road works. He emphasised the critical need to engage with the concerned ministry and coordinate efforts for the speedy completion of the ongoing road construction.