Great Nicobar Island project approved despite quorum issues and FRA violations
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration approved the ₹92,000-crore Great Nicobar Island project, despite failing to meet the mandated 50% quorum at gram sabha meetings. Attendance ranged from 2% to 15%, which the administration defended as "proper quorum" in the Calcutta High Court. Petitions allege violations of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), which requires 50% adult population attendance (one-third women) for a quorum. The administration claimed due process and tribal representation via the Sub-Divisional Level Committee (SDLC). However, petitioners argue Nicobarese and Shompen tribes are covered by Tribal Councils, not gram sabhas, and highlighted repeated names in attendance lists.
Key Points
- The A&NI administration approved the ₹92,000-crore Great Nicobar Island project despite failing to meet the mandated 50% quorum for gram sabha meetings.
- The administration argued in court that low attendance (2-15%) still constituted a "proper quorum" and that tribal representation was ensured via the Sub-Divisional Level Committee (SDLC).
- Petitioners allege violations of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and contend that Nicobarese and Shompen tribal communities should be consulted through Tribal Councils, not gram sabhas.
- The FRA rules stipulate a 50% adult population quorum for gram sabhas, with one-third of attendees being women.
- Concerns were raised about the validity of attendance lists, with allegations of repeated names.
Exam Facts
- The project is the ₹92,000-crore Great Nicobar Island project.
- The Forest Rights Act (FRA) mandates a 50% quorum for gram sabha meetings, with one-third women.
- The Sub-Divisional Level Committee (SDLC) was cited by the administration for tribal representation.
- The Nicobarese and Shompen are tribal communities in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
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