Regarding need to withdraw the notifications seeking acquisition of land for establishment of City Centre Project and Forward Field Base Support Unit for the Indian Air Force in Agatti Island, Lakshadweep-laid

Regarding need to withdraw the notifications seeking acquisition of land for establishment of City Centre Project and Forward Field Base Support Unit for the Indian Air Force in Agatti Island, Lakshadweep-laid SHRI HAMDULLAH SAYEED (LAKSHADWEEP): The Revenue Department has issued two land acquisition notifications dated 9 January 2026 and 22 January 2026, both concerning Agatti Island. The first notification seeks to acquire 1,908 square metres for a City Centre project by the Tourism Department. The second proposes acquisition of approximately 1,52,760 square metres for establishing a Forward Field Base Support Unit for the Indian Air Force. Agatti Island has a total land area of only 27,07,260 square metres and supports a population of around 8,500 people, making it one of the most densely populated Union Territories in India. Land is extremely scarce and essential for survival. The City Centre project will demolish six houses and two shops. The Air Force project will demolish 25 houses, 38 temporary sheds, three shops, 60 resorts, and seven building foundations. Such disproportionate acquisition on a tiny inhabited island will severely affect housing, livelihoods etc. Invoking national security to justify massive displacement has created deep fear and distress among islanders. I urge the Government to meet security, aviation, and tourism requirements by using uninhabited islands after consultation with stakeholders. Both notifications must be withdrawn, local communities taken into confidence, and the rights of Scheduled Tribe islanders protected.