Daijiworld Media Network - Kochi

Kochi, Jul 19: The Lakshadweep administration has set the stage for a potential takeover of Bitra Island — one of the ten inhabited islands in the archipelago — citing strategic and national security concerns. The move has triggered resistance from residents and strong opposition from Lakshadweep MP Hamdullah Sayeed.

A notification issued by the Union Territory’s Revenue Department on July 11 announced a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) to evaluate the implications of transferring the entire island to defence and strategic agencies. The SIA is mandated under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013.

Bitra Island is home to 105 families and has a long-standing indigenous population. Locals fear displacement and the loss of ancestral land.

MP Hamdullah Sayeed released a video message urging islanders to remain calm, assuring them of political and legal support. “As your MP, I convened a meeting with leaders from Bitra and across Lakshadweep. We are united in opposing this — both politically and legally,” he said.

He accused the administration of bypassing due process and ignoring community voices. “The government has already acquired land for defence on other islands. Targeting Bitra, with no alternative proposal or local consultation, is unacceptable,” he stated.

Sayeed further condemned the lack of transparency, noting that no prior discussions were held with residents.

The notification mentions that while consultations with stakeholders, including the gram sabha, will be part of the SIA, the consent of gram sabhas or landowners is not mandatory for proceeding with the acquisition. The SIA and Consent Society, UT of Lakshadweep, is expected to complete the survey within two months.

As tension simmers on the island, the coming weeks will likely see increased mobilisation from local communities and further political pushback against the proposed defence takeover.