Bhasker seeks unbiased probe into Coast Guard incident alleging assault on local fishermen

Port Blair: Alleged assault on local fishermen by Coast Guard personnel near East Island has snowballed into a political issue, with Andaman Territorial Congress Committee (ANTCC) Campaign Committee Chairman TSG Bhasker on Sunday meeting the affected fishermen at Chunnabatta and assuring them of justice.The fishermen, who had ventured out for fishing near East Island, recounted the alleged assault and described the ordeal as traumatic, claiming they were attacked while pursuing their livelihood. The incident has reportedly sparked widespread anger and anxiety among fishing communities across the islands. Expressing solidarity with the victims, Bhasker strongly condemned the alleged assault and said he would take up the matter with higher authorities to ensure a fair and impartial inquiry.While acknowledging the crucial role of the Coast Guard in safeguarding the nation’s maritime frontiers, the senior Congress leader stressed that the dignity, safety and rights of innocent local fishermen must never be compromised. Assuring the fishing community of all possible support, Bhasker said every effort would be made to secure justice and prevent recurrence of such incidents.Bhasker was accompanied by Hope Town Pradhan Rasheeda Bibi, Samiti Member Laxmi Narayan, Minority Department Chairman Saji Varghese and Ward No. 14 Councillor Y. Joga Rao during the visit.