Reforms in Lakshadweep aims at public welfare; justifies collector

Kochi: Lakshadweep collector S Asker Ali has justified the reforms introduced by the administrator on the island. Addressing a press meet here on Thursday, the collector pointed out that the reforms aim at the welfare of the island residents. Responding to the controversies, he stated that fake allegations are raised against the Lakshadweep administration.

The collector has also given justifications to each reform introduced by the administrator Praful Khoda Patel.

“ Measures are taken to ensure a safe future for the people of Lakshadweep. The link with Mangalore port will benefit the island. A modern school will be established at Kavaratti. The administration aims to develop tourism on the island and establish more facilities for tourists. The decision to lift the ban on liquor was taken to improve tourism,” informed the collector.

“A few days back 300 case heroin and AK47 worth Rs 3000 cr were seized from the island. Apart from this, cases related to possession of marijuana, drug and POCSO cases were also reported. In the background of this, the authority decided to implement strict rules in Lakshadweep. People who have vested interests are being provoked by the reforms. Such people are staging protests against Lakshadweep administration,” he added.

The collector also briefed the media about the COVID prevention efforts on the island.

“Air service and vehicular traffic were prohibited on the island as part of the COVID prevention efforts. Relaxations were given as considering the demands of the people. Actions are being taken for conducting COVID tests. The majority of the people above 18 years in 6 islands are vaccinated,” informed the official.

He declared that the Lakshadweep authority will not implement the rule which bans people who have more than two children from contesting the polls.

He pointed out that sheds of the fishermen were removed as part of curbing illegal encroachments.

“Drug cases and POCSO cases are also reported in the Union Territory. The island residents are also involved in drug trafficking.  Many youths are engaged in anti-social activities. The prevention of anti-social activities regulation act will be introduced to curb such crimes,” pointed out the collector.

At the same time, he added that beef was banned on the island due to its shortage. He pointed out that it will boost local fishing.

Collector Asker Ali declared that the Lakshadweep administration functions as per the interest and welfare of the public.