The island that is not allowed to be visited in the Andaman Islands is North Sentinel Island.
North Sentinel Island: An Uncontacted Zone
North Sentinel Island, located in the Bay of Bengal, is strictly off-limits to all visitors. This prohibition is primarily to protect its indigenous inhabitants, the Sentinelese, one of the last uncontacted tribes in the world, and to safeguard their isolation.
Reasons for Restriction
The Indian government maintains a strict policy of non-interference with the Sentinelese, for several critical reasons:
- Protection of the Sentinelese Tribe: The Sentinelese have maintained their isolated way of life for thousands of years. Contact with outsiders poses a significant threat to their existence.
- Vulnerability to Disease: The Sentinelese people have no immunity to common diseases that are widespread among modern populations. Even a minor illness could decimate their entire population.
- Preservation of Culture and Autonomy: Allowing contact would inevitably disrupt their unique culture, traditions, and self-governance.
- Safety of Outsiders: The Sentinelese are known to be hostile towards outsiders, often reacting with arrows and other weapons, as they perceive any approach as a threat. There have been documented instances of individuals attempting to land on the island being killed.
Legal Status and Enforcement
The entire North Sentinel Island and its surrounding waters are designated as a protected tribal reserve under the Indian law. Approaching within a certain radius of the island is illegal and strictly enforced by the Indian Navy and the local administration. This measure is crucial for the safety of both the tribe and potential intruders, ensuring their continued isolation and survival.
