Development Must Serve Islanders, Not Corporates: Rahul Gandhi During Andaman Visit

Senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Sunday criticised what he described as growing corporate interest in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, asserting that development must prioritise local communities rather than large business groups.

Addressing the Pradesh Congress Convention at the Dr B R Ambedkar auditorium in Sri Vijaya Puram, Gandhi alleged that powerful corporates are eyeing the islands , particularly in connection with the Great Nicobar Holistic Development Project . The ambitious ₹81,000-crore infrastructure project proposes a transshipment port, airport, power plant and township. Gandhi said development must not ignore the welfare, environment and sentiments of island residents.

Gandhi is on a three-day visit to the islands (April 26–28) and is interacting with local stakeholders and tribal representatives. The trip follows a meeting he held in New Delhi with members of the Great Nicobar Tribal Council, who raised concerns about the project and invited him to understand the situation on the ground.

Referring to his nationwide outreach campaign, the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi said he “made a mistake” by not starting the march from Indira Point , the southernmost tip of India located in Great Nicobar Island.

The Congress leader also raised concerns over law and order and women’s safety , referring to allegations against a former chief secretary in an alleged sexual assault case and questioning the government’s commitment to the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign.

Highlighting local priorities, Gandhi called for a deemed university, improved water supply and stronger education infrastructure . He also emphasised the need for sustainable tourism that benefits islanders rather than outside corporations.

Describing the islands as a “Mini India,” he praised their communal harmony and cultural diversity, calling it an example of “mohabbat ki dukaan” rooted in shared values . Gandhi assured residents that he would raise their concerns in Parliament and remain accessible to address public issues.

He added that the ideological contest between the Indian National Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party goes beyond politics, alleging electoral irregularities in several states and warning that similar trends could emerge elsewhere.