Lakshadweep’s Bitra Island: A Strategic Move with Local Concerns

A New Chapter for Bitra Island

The serene Lakshadweep archipelago, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, is currently at the center of a significant development. Specifically, the Lakshadweep administration is considering a proposal to acquire Bitra, one of its inhabited islands, for crucial defense purposes. This move, outlined in a recent government notification, aims to transfer the island’s entire land area to the central government’s defense and strategic agencies. Therefore, this initiative underscores the growing importance of India’s island territories in national security.

Why Bitra Island?

The decision to acquire Bitra Island is driven primarily by its strategic location and national security relevance. Furthermore, the notification highlights the inherent logistical and administrative challenges posed by civilian habitation in such a critical area. Bitra, though the smallest inhabited island in the archipelago, holds immense potential for bolstering India’s defense capabilities in the Arabian Sea. Indeed, this strategic positioning could be vital for surveillance, naval operations, and overall maritime security.

The Process of Acquisition

The acquisition process will follow the provisions of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. Consequently, a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) study will be undertaken for the affected area. District Collector Shivam Chandra has affirmed that all stakeholders, including gram sabhas, will be consulted as part of these SIA initiatives. However, it is important to note that under existing land acquisition laws, the consent of landowners or gram sabhas is not mandatory for such acquisitions. The survey for the proposed area is expected to be completed within two months from the notification’s publication.

Local Voices and Concerns

Despite the strategic imperatives, the proposed acquisition has sparked considerable concern and opposition from the local residents of Bitra Island. This small community, comprising around 105 families or approximately 350 individuals, largely depends on fishing and coconut plantations for their livelihood. Lakshadweep MP Hamdullah Sayeed has strongly protested the move, extending his full support to the islanders. He argues that the real objective might be to displace the indigenous population, questioning why Bitra has been chosen when land for defense purposes has already been acquired on other islands. Moreover, Sayeed has criticized the administration for initiating such actions without proper consultation with the local residents, especially given the absence of functioning local panchayats. He has pledged to explore all political and legal avenues to resist the move, promising to raise the issue in the upcoming Parliament session.

The Broader Context

This development comes at a time when Lakshadweep has garnered increased national attention. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the islands brought their natural beauty and tourism potential into the spotlight. This visit also coincided with a diplomatic row, which further amplified interest in Lakshadweep as a significant Indian territory. Therefore, the current move to acquire Bitra Island for defense purposes adds another layer to the islands’ evolving strategic and socio-political landscape. The balance between national security needs and the rights and livelihoods of local communities remains a critical aspect of this ongoing situation.