Great Nicobar Project Faces strong opposition from the Congress, which on Friday accused the Modi government of pushing the ambitious infrastructure plan without transparency. The party alleged that the Centre is attempting to bring private players into the project while refusing to share crucial information with the public.
Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh said the Great Nicobar Project Faces serious ecological and democratic concerns. He claimed the government is “bulldozing” the project despite mounting evidence of irreversible environmental damage. According to him, large-scale development in the ecologically sensitive island could severely affect biodiversity and indigenous tribal communities.
Mr. Ramesh referred to reports suggesting that the Galathea Bay International Container Transshipment Terminal, a core component of the project, may be developed under a public-private partnership model. He alleged that the move raises questions about the government’s intent, especially when petitions related to environmental clearances remain pending before the Calcutta High Court and the National Green Tribunal.
Furthermore, he criticised the Centre for citing national security to deny public access to project details while simultaneously opening the door to corporate participation. He argued that such selective transparency reflects political convenience rather than public interest.
Earlier, Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi had termed the project a “planned misadventure” that threatens tribal survival and undermines legal safeguards. However, the government has defended the project, stating that all statutory clearances are in place and the development is vital for national growth.
