Sri Vijaya Puram, March 18: The Hon’ble High Court at Calcutta, Circuit Bench at Port Blair, has admitted the writ petition of All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), challenging the validity of Regulation 38 and Regulation 159(2) of the 1996 Regulation. These provisions, in their present form, deny the islanders their rightful and absolute ownership of land, undermining both livelihood security and the dignity of the local communities.
Despite proper service, the Union of India has failed to appear before the Court. The Hon’ble Bench has directed the respondents to file their affidavit-in-opposition within four weeks, with the reply of AIKS to follow thereafter. The matter of maintainability will be decided at the time of final hearing, but the Court has recognized the seriousness of the challenge raised.
AIKS firmly believes that the land belongs to the people of these islands. The current regulations are unjust, anti-people, and violate the spirit of democracy and self-reliance. Land is not merely property, it is the foundation of life, culture, and future generations. To deprive islanders of absolute rights over their land is to deny them their identity and security.
The AIKS has called upon all sections of society—farmers, workers, students, pensioners, and the broader democratic forces—to unite in this struggle. This is not just a legal battle; it is a fight for justice, dignity, and the future of the islanders. AIKS will continue to pursue this matter in Court, but the strength of the movement lies in the solidarity of the people.
The struggle ahead will require patience, courage, and unity. AIKS assures the people that we will not rest until justice is achieved. Together, we can ensure that the land of the islands remains with its rightful owners – the people, said the AIKS in a press communication.