Overview
- Rahul Gandhi, who met tribal leaders in Campbell Bay during a multi‑day visit, on Wednesday called the Great Nicobar project a “scam” and “destruction dressed in development’s language” and said he would raise the issue in Parliament.
- Former Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria on Thursday rejected Gandhi’s claims and said the plan is crucial for security and trade, citing a major port, a dual‑use airport, a 450‑MW power plant and a new township as core parts of an integrated build.
- Backed by central approvals, the project spans about 166 sq km near the Strait of Malacca and includes a transshipment port, airport, power plant and township, with reports noting large forest diversion and significant tribal land within the footprint.
- The National Green Tribunal in February found no grounds to block the plan and kept conditions in place, even as activists challenged parts of the clearance and flagged alleged violations of coastal rules under the Island Coastal Regulation Zone.
- Local representatives warn of opaque processes, inadequate compensation and risks to the Shompen, a highly vulnerable tribe that could face disease from outside contact, while rights groups and settlers fear loss of rainforest, habitat and livelihoods.