The Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration's claim of tribal consent for the diversion of 166.10 sq km of forest land for the Great Nicobar project is being challenged in the Calcutta High Court. The petitioner, Meena Gupta (former union government secretary), argues that the three Gram Sabha resolutions cited as proof of consent were signed by settlers rather than the indigenous Nicobarese and Shompen tribes. Gupta's counter-affidavit highlights that at least 60 names appeared on multiple resolutions, suggesting procedural irregularities. The resolutions were passed on August 12, 2022, at three different locations, but the language used was identical, indicating a lack of genuine deliberation. Additionally, Gupta contends that the sub-divisional level committee (SDLC) responsible for reviewing these resolutions lacked proper representation from the tribal communities, as mandated by the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006. The administration's assertion of having followed due process is called into question, particularly as the tribal council had previously revoked its no-objection to the project, citing unresolved forest rights issues. The court has agreed to hear the petition, overruling objections from the Centre regarding its maintainability.