Ross Island: India’s Abandoned Island of Colonial Oppression and Disaster

by Peter May 19, 2024

written by Peter May 19, 2024

India’s Abandoned Island of Colonial Horror: Ross Island

A Tale of Oppression and Disaster

The Penal Colony

In the wake of the Indian Mutiny of 1857, British colonists established a penal colony on the Andaman & Nicobar Islands to quell rebellion. Ross Island, the smallest of the archipelago’s 576 islands, became the administrative headquarters due to its strategic location.

Indian convicts and political prisoners were forced to clear the island’s dense forests and construct an opulent colonial complex, including a commissioner’s bungalow, a Presbyterian church, and manicured gardens. Despite the luxurious surroundings, life on Ross Island was anything but comfortable.

Inmates were overworked, disease-ridden, and emaciated. Malaria, cholera, and other tropical diseases were rampant. The British even conducted illicit medical trials on convicts, force-feeding them experimental malaria drugs with severe side effects.

The Cellular Jail and Indian Independence

As the Indian struggle for independence intensified, the need for a proper prison led to the construction of the Cellular Jail at nearby Port Blair. This notorious prison witnessed unspeakable atrocities against Indian freedom fighters and political prisoners.

The Cellular Jail’s closure in 1937 marked a turning point in the history of the Andamans. However, the tumultuous past of the islands continued.

Earthquake and Japanese Occupation

In 1941, a magnitude 8.1 earthquake struck the islands, causing widespread damage and over 3,000 deaths. One year later, Japanese forces occupied the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Unable to defend the islands, the British fled. Over the course of three years of Japanese occupation, Ross Island was pillaged for raw materials and vandalized to build bunkers.

Abandonment and Tourism

After the Allied forces recaptured the islands in 1945, the penal colony was permanently disbanded. Today, Ross Island is administered by the Indian government and exists as a tourist attraction.

Visitors can explore the abandoned buildings, now enveloped in gnarly trees. The island’s eerie atmosphere and forgotten history evoke the horrors of colonial oppression.

A Forgotten Legacy

Ross Island, once touted as the “Paris of the East,” stands as a poignant reminder of the brutality of British imperialism and the resilience of the Indian people.

Despite its idyllic surroundings, the island’s history is one of suffering and oppression. Yet, amidst the decay and desolation, Ross Island offers a glimpse into a forgotten chapter of Indian history and the enduring legacy of colonialism.

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.