Monday, January 27, 2014

Is Maradhoo Feydhoo a Union Territory?


A Union Territory is a specific type of administrative division within the Republic of India, where the territories are ruled directly by the central government, unlike states that have their own elected governments. Similarly, in the Maldives, Maradhoo Feydhoo was once considered a separate administrative entity, functioning as an individual island. However, with the establishment of Addu City, the electoral zones were restructured into wards, and Maradhoo Feydhoo was merged with Maradhoo, losing its status as a distinct electoral zone.

Unhappy with this arrangement, a representative from Maradhoo Feydhoo took the matter to court, seeking recognition of Maradhoo Feydhoo as a separate administrative island. After several court hearings, the case was decided in favour of Maradhoo Feydhoo, acknowledging it as an individual administrative island with all the jurisdiction that comes with such status.

Despite the court's ruling, both the government and local authorities have not recognized Maradhoo Feydhoo as a separate island, nor have they granted it the legal entitlements it deserves. As a result, the question arises: Where does Maradhoo Feydhoo stand in the Maldivian administrative structure? Can it be likened to a Union Territory, similar to Andaman and Minicoy in India?

It's worth noting that while the court's decision recognizes Maradhoo Feydhoo as a separate administrative island, the official administrative divisions may not have been updated accordingly. In the case of India, Union Territories have unique governance arrangements and specific roles within the country's administrative framework. Similarly, if Maradhoo Feydhoo were to be regarded as a Union Territory, it would imply certain administrative distinctions and rights under Maldivian law.

As of now, the situation remains unclear, and the recognition and treatment of Maradhoo Feydhoo as an independent island within the Maldives require further consideration and action from the relevant authorities.

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