The Hindu Rashtra Shakti (HRS) has issued an urgent appeal to the Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, demanding comprehensive improvements to the Junglighat Shamshan Ghat (Hindu Cremation Ground) and its adjoining access route. The organization cited deteriorating infrastructure and unsanitary conditions as major concerns affecting the dignity and safety of bereaved families during last rites.
In a formal letter submitted by State Youth President Angshuman Roy, HRS highlighted several critical issues:
- Dilapidated cremation platforms and broken boundary walls, posing serious safety risks.
- Frequent intrusion of stray dogs and pigs, compromising the sanctity of the site and creating health hazards.
- Lack of basic amenities, including toilets, clean drinking water, shaded waiting areas, and adequate lighting—particularly affecting women, children, and the elderly.
- Absence of firewood storage, poor drainage, and inadequate infrastructure to support extended rituals and religious practices.
“This cremation ground serves a large segment of the Hindu community in Port Blair, and its present condition is deeply undignified,” Roy stated, calling for immediate government intervention to restore the site and uphold the community’s constitutional right to religious dignity.
In parallel, the Port Blair Municipal Council has proposed a development plan for the crematorium, backed by the Member of Parliament and supported through MPLADS and municipal funds. The plan includes:
- Renovation of the ritual pond in traditional ghat style
- Construction of a proper approach path and separate service road for firewood
- Installation of public utilities such as toilets, changing rooms, and drinking water facilities
- Enhanced lighting and shaded seating areas for mourners
HRS has urged the administration to expedite these upgrades and ensure that the cremation ground is maintained in a manner befitting its cultural and spiritual significance. The appeal has sparked renewed public discourse around the condition of religious infrastructure in the islands and the need for inclusive civic planning.
