Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 24: Hon’ble Member of Parliament Shri Bishnu Pada Ray today met the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and senior officers of the Forest Department at Port Blair, along with representatives and residents of Cutbert Bay and adjoining forest areas of Middle Andaman, to discuss the long-pending issue of resettlement of families identified as post-1978 forest encroachers.
During the meeting, the Forest Department informed the MP that the A&N Administration has already filed an Interlocutory Application (IA) before the Hon’ble Supreme Court, placing on record its proposed framework for the resettlement of all such families. The IA is presently pending adjudication before the Apex Court.
Shri Bishnu Pada Ray emphasized that transparency and public consultation are essential before any final decision is taken. He therefore requested the Administration to provide a copy of the IA and the resettlement proposal so that:
1. All affected and interested families may be informed of the contents of the proposal
2. Their views, concerns and suggestions can be duly incorporated, and
3. Any modifications, if required, may be placed before the Hon’ble Supreme Court in a timely manner.
The MP reiterated his commitment to ensuring that no eligible family is left unheard and that the final resettlement plan is fair, humane, and in accordance with both judicial directions and ground realities.
He assured the residents that his office will continue to monitor the matter closely and will facilitate constructive dialogue between the public and the administration for a just resolution.