Centre's ‘takeover' bid of island sparks protest in Lakshadweep

The latest move by the Union government to acquire Bitra, the smallest inhabited island in Lakshadweep, for defence and strategic purposes has triggered strong protests by local residents and political leaders.

- AM Abdussalam | Agencies

The Lakshadweep revenue department issued a notification on July II announcing a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) as part of the land acquisition process.

As per the notification, the entire land area will be acquired and handed over to the relevant defence and strategic agencies of the government of India.

According to the official notification, Bitra Island's “strategic location” and “national security relevance” are the key reasons behind its proposed acquisition. The department of revenue has been named the project developer, and the SIA is expected to be completed within two months.

The notification mentions that consultations will be held with stakeholders, including gram sabhas (village councils). However, it clarifies that their consent is not mandatory under the existing land acquisition laws. Land measuring 91,700sq m, spread over 180 survey numbers, has been proposed for acquisition.

At 0.57 km long, the coral island is home to over 300 residents and is situated 483 km from Kochi. A large lagoon surrounds the island and is inhabited mostly by fishermen.