Congress Raises National Security Concerns Over Great Nicobar Project

New Delhi: The Congress party on Friday launched a sharp attack on the central government over the ambitious Great Nicobar Project. The party alleged that the government is pushing the project forward primarily to benefit private companies. Congress directly targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming that while the government is keeping the project under wraps citing national security, it is simultaneously trying to involve private players.

Focus on Galathea Bay Project
Congress General Secretary and Communications Chief Jairam Ramesh shared a media report asserting that the government intends to develop the Galathea Bay International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands under a public-private partnership (PPP). The former Environment Minister alleged that despite knowing the project could have “devastating ecological impacts,” the Modi government is adamantly pushing it forward.

Private Company Controversy Sparks Outrage
Ramesh highlighted that there are significant environmental and legal concerns regarding the Great Nicobar Project, with petitions pending in both the Calcutta High Court and the National Green Tribunal. Despite this, the government is proceeding. “The main reason behind the Modi government’s insistence has now come to light. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has recently proposed the Galathea ICTT as part of the Great Nicobar Project, which is to be developed under the PPP model,” he said.

Direct Allegations Against PM Modi
He further claimed that it is no secret which private group is involved in the project. “This group already owns and operates 13 ports and terminals in the country and is one of the biggest names in the corporate world. All of this is happening with the Prime Minister’s approval,” Ramesh said.

Questions Over National Security Claims
Congress also questioned the government’s claims of national security. “On one hand, the government is withholding details of the project citing national security, while on the other hand, it is involving a private company. For the Modi government, public transparency seems to be a matter of political convenience,” the party asserted.

It may be recalled that last year, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi had also raised concerns over the project. However, the government has denied the allegations, stating that all developments are in line with future requirements.