Government Eyes Lakshadweep Island for Defence, Sparks Local Outcry
The Indian government is moving to acquire Bitra Island in Lakshadweep for defence purposes, citing its strategic location and national security relevance. This decision has sparked significant concern among the island's small population and local political leaders, who fear displacement and disruption to their traditional livelihoods, primarily fishing.
Strategic Acquisition Sparks Lakshadweep Controversy
The central government's plan to acquire Bitra Island, one of Lakshadweep's ten inhabited islands, for defence has initiated a Social Impact Assessment (SIA). The Lakshadweep Revenue Department issued a notification on July 11, outlining the transfer of the entire island to defence and strategic agencies due to its "strategic location" and "national security relevance."
- The initiative is driven by the island's strategic importance and the logistical challenges associated with civilian habitation.
- The territorial administration will take over the island, necessitating an SIA under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013.
- The SIA, to be conducted by the SIA and Consent Society, Union Territory of Lakshadweep, is expected to be completed within two months.
Local Opposition and Displacement Fears
Lakshadweep MP Hamdullah Syeed has strongly condemned the move, vowing to oppose it "tooth and nail." He argues that the government cannot acquire an entire inhabited island without proper consultation or sensitivity to its residents' lives. Residents of Bitra, a small community of around 350 people across 105 families, fear losing their land and being displaced from their ancestral homes.
- Bitra Island, covering approximately 0.091 sq km, is crucial for the fishing community, with its 45 sq km lagoon area used by fishermen from Bitra and other islands.
- Residents highlight their dependence on fishing and coconut plantations, noting the presence of a school and health centre on the island.
- Fishermen from other islands also rely on Bitra for its abundant lagoon fish, tuna, and groupers.
Lakshadweep's Growing Defence Footprint
This proposed acquisition follows the commissioning of a new naval base, INS Jatayu, in Lakshadweep's Minicoy island last year. Lakshadweep, India's smallest Union Territory, comprises coral islands and reefs scattered in the Arabian Sea. The archipelago, with a total land area of about 32 sq km, is a restricted area, requiring permits for visits. The islands are vital for India's maritime security, given their strategic location off the west coast of Kerala.
