Lakshadweep Islanders Fear Land Seizure Under Eco-Tourism Banner

The pristine islands of Lakshadweep, known for their natural beauty and cultural richness, are now at the center of a contentious debate over land rights and development.

Recent decisions by the local administration to expedite eco-tourism projects have sparked outrage among the islanders, who perceive these moves as a threat to their ancestral lands and way of life.

Also read: How to become an Eco tourist? Complete Guide

Understanding Pandaram Lands: A Legacy Threatened

Pandaram lands, a significant portion of the islands' territory, hold deep historical and cultural significance for the indigenous communities of Lakshadweep.

These lands were originally established during periods of external threat to provide refuge and sustenance to local populations.

Over generations, they have become not just sources of agricultural productivity but also integral to the residential and cultural fabric of the islands.

However, recent notifications from the Lakshadweep administration have reclassified these lands under the proprietary rights of the Union government, citing provisions from the Laccadive, Minicoy, and Aminidivi Islands Land Revenue and Tenancy Regulation, 1965.

This reclassification paves the way for the acquisition of pandaram lands for commercial purposes, notably high-end eco-tourism projects.

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Controversial Administrative Decisions: A Betrayal of Trust

Under the leadership of Praful Khoda Patel, the first non-bureaucrat administrator of Lakshadweep, significant amendments have been introduced to existing regulations.

These changes have stripped away long-standing protections that safeguarded pandaram landholders, leaving them vulnerable to displacement without adequate compensation.

Critics, including former advisory committee members like Misbah A., argue that these decisions amount to a betrayal of trust.

They allege that the administration's close ties with private entities, such as Praveg, a Gujarat-based tourism and hospitality firm, indicate a prioritization of commercial interests over the welfare of indigenous communities.

The economic benefits accruing to external investors stand in stark contrast to the potential losses faced by local islanders, who risk losing not only their land but also their primary means of livelihood.

Legal and Ethical Concerns: Upholding Constitutional Rights

The contentious actions of the administration have raised serious legal and ethical questions. Advocates for indigenous rights point to constitutional provisions that mandate the protection of cultural heritage and land rights for tribal communities.

They emphasize the need for transparency, fairness, and adherence to legal frameworks in all development initiatives.

Furthermore, the allegations of overlooking established policies and recommendations from national bodies, including the Ministry of Home Affairs and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, underscore a broader concern about governance and accountability in the Union Territory.

The administration's disregard for these guidelines, coupled with amendments that weaken protections for pandaram landholders, sets a troubling precedent for land rights across India's remote territories.

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The Road Ahead: Mobilizing for Justice

In response to mounting opposition and legal challenges, islanders and their supporters are mobilizing to defend their rights.

They demand that any development projects in Lakshadweep respect the rights and interests of local communities, adhere to legal frameworks, and ensure fair compensation for those affected by land acquisitions.

The battle over pandaram lands in Lakshadweep is more than a local dispute; it symbolizes a larger struggle for environmental justice and indigenous rights in India.

As the controversy continues to unfold, it prompts a critical examination of the ethical implications of eco-tourism, the responsibilities of administrators towards marginalized communities, and the role of legal protections in safeguarding Indigenous territories.

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In conclusion,

The outcome of this conflict will not only shape the future of Lakshadweep's development but also establish crucial precedents for the protection of indigenous lands and cultural heritage nationwide.

It calls upon policymakers, legal authorities, and civil society to uphold constitutional principles and ensure that development initiatives prioritize justice and sustainability above all else.