The Andaman & Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee held a press conference today to address the ongoing concerns over fuel shortage and rising fuel prices in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, warning that the situation could worsen if immediate steps are not taken by the administration and the central government.
During the interaction with the media, leaders of the Andaman & Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee pointed to a recent increase in the prices of LPG cylinders in the islands. According to the party, the price of domestic LPG cylinders has increased by ₹60 while commercial cylinders have risen by ₹115, placing additional financial pressure on households and small businesses.
The party stated that the price hike has significantly affected families already dealing with rising living costs. It said women and economically vulnerable sections of society are among the worst affected by the increase in cooking fuel prices.
Congress leaders also expressed concern over growing public anxiety regarding the availability of fuel and essential food grains. They said residents have begun lining up for LPG cylinders and fuel amid uncertainty about the availability of stocks across the islands.
The party criticised the local administration for not issuing an official update regarding the current stock levels of fuel and essential commodities such as rice and wheat. According to the Congress leaders, the absence of clear information has created confusion among residents.
They warned that the geographical isolation of the islands makes the region particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions. Referring to reports of fuel shortages affecting restaurants and businesses in parts of mainland India, the party said similar disruptions could have more serious consequences in the island territory if supply chains are interrupted.
The Andaman and Nicobar Pradesh Congress Committee urged the administration and the central government to take immediate steps to ensure adequate supply and prevent hoarding or black marketing of essential commodities.
Apart from the fuel and supply concerns, the party also raised questions regarding a recent recruitment notice issued for Senior Scientific Assistants in the forensic laboratory of the police department.
The Congress questioned why permanent vacancies were being filled through contractual appointments and expressed concern over the eligibility criteria mentioned in the notification. It said the age limit of 25 to 45 years for the posts required clarification and demanded that recruitment interviews be conducted in physical mode to ensure transparency.
The party also called for priority to be given to local youth in the recruitment process.
Congress leaders further highlighted the issue of water shortages in several areas of the islands. They said residents have been facing repeated water rationing despite paying higher taxes and called for measures to address the problem.
The Andaman and Nicobar Pradesh Congress Committee announced that it plans to meet the concerned secretary to seek a review of the availability of essential commodities in the islands.
Congress leaders warned that if the administration fails to respond to the concerns raised or if shortages of fuel and essential supplies worsen, the party may organise public protests in the coming days.
