A tribal delegation from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands met Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi and raised concern over the proposed Great Nicobar Infrastructure project.
During the interaction on Thursday (March 20, 2026), the delegation expressed apprehensions about the potential adverse impact of the project on the fragile ecosystem of Great Nicobar Island and its indigenous tribal communities, according to a Congress statement issued here.
Nicobar Tribal Council says it is being pressured to sign ‘surrender certificate’ for ancestral tribal lands
The delegation stressed that while development is essential, it must not come at the cost of ecological degradation or displacement and marginalisation of the tribal population. The members sought a balanced and sustainable approach that prioritises environmental conservation and safeguards the traditional rights and livelihoods of the native communities.
The delegation comprises members of the Tribal Council from Nicobar District. At the same time, Dr. Vikrant Bhuria, national chairman of the All India Adivasi Congress, was also present at the meeting with Mr. Gandhi.
