Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 29: Hon’ble Member of Parliament from Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Shri Bishnu Pada Ray, has raised serious allegations regarding the construction of a bar-cum-restaurant on land traditionally used as a Hindu cremation and burial ground at Foreshore Road, Port Blair.
In a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Secretary, Shri Ray expressed grave concern over the alleged illegal diversion of protected government land and misuse of public funds under the Smart City project.
According to the MP, construction activities are continuing on the site despite its historical use as a cremation and burial ground. He alleged that the boundary wall of the graveyard has been demolished and a hillock used for burials has been excavated through near-vertical earth cutting. Several graves reportedly exist within close proximity, including that of Late Shri R. Mohan, former State President of BJP.
Shri Ray stated that the land in question is “set apart” government land under the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Land Revenue & Land Reforms Regulation, 1966, reserved exclusively for burial and cremation purposes. He asserted that such land cannot be diverted for commercial activities like running a bar or restaurant without lawful allotment and due process.
The MP further questioned the justification of using Smart City funds for creating infrastructure intended for liquor-related commercial activities, calling it a clear violation of public purpose and financial propriety. He also alleged jurisdictional overreach by municipal authorities in projecting the site for a restaurant-cum-bar, despite liquor licensing falling under a separate statutory domain.
Shri Ray pointed out that objections had earlier been raised by various organisations, political parties, ward councillors and civil groups, following which a vigilance inquiry was reportedly ordered. However, he expressed concern that no effective action has been taken so far.
Terming the matter as serious and sensitive, involving rule of law, religious dignity and public trust, Shri Bishnu Pada Ray demanded immediate stoppage of all construction activities at the site and securing of the land to prevent further damage and expenditure of public funds.
He further demanded that the entire matter be taken out of the purview of local authorities and handed over for independent investigation, preferably to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), to fix responsibility in a fair and transparent manner.
The MP also called for an immediate field inspection by senior officials along with representatives of local organisations and public bodies.
Shri Bishnu Pada Ray cautioned that any delay or inaction would only aggravate the situation and deepen public discontent, and urged the Administration to take urgent corrective steps in the interest of law, justice and public confidence in governance.