The Lakshadweep debate beyond Praful Khoda Patel

Social media is abuzz with posts hashtagged #SaveLakshadweep demanding the removal of Praful Khoda Patel, the administrator of the Union Territory. Here is why

Known for its scenic beauty and tranquillity, Lakshadweep is in the news right now over a political controversy. Social media is abuzz with posts hashtagged #SaveLakshadweep demanding the removal of Praful Khoda Patel, the administrator of the Union Territory. Praful Khoda Patel is being blamed for the Covid-19 surge in Lakshadweep and is accused of creating social tension in the smallest Union Territory of India. Literally, Laskhadweep translates into an archipelago of 1 lakh islands, but it is actually a group of 36 islands of which 12 are atolls, three reefs, five submerged banks, and only 10 are inhabited islands. There are multiple focal points in the protests visible on the Internet, including social media platforms. Among those raising their voice against Praful Khoda Patel are local residents, politicians including Lakshadweep MP Mohammed Faizal, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, footballer CK Vineeth, and actor Prithviraj Sukumar.