Sikkim Parivartan

02/02/2025

Tragic Day for South Sikkim: Three Suicides Shake Melli and Tarku

South Sikkim was rocked by a series of tragic su***des on January 29, 2025, with three separate incidents taking place across the Melli and Tarku areas, prompting investigations by local authorities.

The first incident was reported around 6:23 PM when a local resident filed a First Information Report (FIR) with the Melli Police Station, stating that a 27-year-old male neighbor had tragically taken his own life by hanging inside his residence. Authorities registered the case under UD Case No. 01/2025, and a magisterial inquest was conducted with no signs of foul play. The body was sent for a post-mortem, and investigations are ongoing.

Later that evening, a second FIR was filed by a family member regarding the su***de of a 30-year-old woman, discovered hanging in her bathroom. Authorities initiated UD Case No. 02/2025, and again, no signs of foul play were found during the inquest. The body was sent for a post-mortem, and investigations continue.

A third su***de occurred later that night when a Ward Panchayat member reported the death of a 45-year-old woman, found hanging inside her home. Preliminary investigations suggest the woman had been unwell and recently discharged from a local hospital. The case has been registered under UD Case No. 03/2025, and investigations are ongoing.

While these tragic events have left the community in grief, the local authorities have also reported three unrelated traffic challans issued in Namchi and Temi under the C.M.V. Act, 1988.

Note: This report has adhered to ethical guidelines by avoiding the identification of the su***de victims. Personal details such as addresses and other private information have been withheld, ensuring respect for the dignity and privacy of the deceased and their families. The identities of individuals who filed FIRs have been mentioned, as this does not violate privacy considerations. Furthermore, the nature of the su***des has been handled with sensitivity focusing on facts while avoiding sensationalism, to maintain the integrity of the journalistic process.

02/02/2025

01/02/2025

Dancing Denzong Daunted by Domicile Decision

THE RHYTHM OF IDENTITY

Sikkim's jubilant chorus of song and dance was abruptly silenced by a landmark Supreme Court decision that struck at the very heart of her self-perception. The ruling declared that the notion of a provincial or state domicile in India is not just an anomaly, but a misconception. According to Article 5 of the Indian Constitution, there is but one domicile across the entire nation – that of the territory of India.

The blow was sharp, almost chilling, as it swept through Sikkim's jubilant air. In an instant, the festive mood gave way to a collective, apprehensive pause. Or at least, for dancing Sikkim, the rhythm has changed. The opposition parties are busily fanning the flames of foreboding, while the ruling party is downplaying the verdict. The State Law Minister, Raju Basnet, took to social media with an optimistic post, obviously attempting to reassure the Sikkimese people that nothing has changed, and all is well.

I admire his optimism as much as I suspect the political compulsion that shackles his thought process. But against the backdrop of the former Law Minister’s muteness when the Supreme Court verdict ‘redefined the Sikkimese’, his courage in attempting to respond with intellectual grace is truly commendable. Moreover, his post, so far, has been a rare attempt at depth from his party. As a Sikkimese, I wish his words were entirely true. But as someone who believes in challenging wishes that stir in the heart with thoughts that arise in the mind, I can’t help but question the minister’s comforting assurances and call for a deeper reflection. Here are my reservations—ones that seek not to diminish his perspective, but to encourage further thought.

One, Minister Basnet asserts that the Supreme Court's ruling does not impact Sikkim, referring to the State of Sikkim v. Surendra Prasad Sharma case. Is it safe to take the ruling so simplistically? Would it not be a safer approach to believe that the Court’s decision on domicile issues could have broader implications beyond the reservation system? This ruling on national domicile might still be seen as conflicting with regional domiciles, especially considering modern legal interpretations of constitutional equality. The Minister soft pedals the potential impact, which might just be the assumption of an incumbent politician.

Two, the call for a uniform national policy regarding domicile has been steadily gaining ground. It is a logical extension of the ‘One Nation, One …’ policy of the BJP government. The political rhetoric of a small regional party with one MP alone seems inadequate to counter the sweeping force of this movement. The pressing question for Sikkim is: How well-prepared is the state to navigate and resist the increasing centralization, which may eventually challenge and potentially override the notion of regional domiciles as part of the broader vision of a unified nation? The argumentation of centralization is becoming ever more compelling. Is our argumentation for the preservation of a premerger identity growing correspondingly? Have we been growing maturer to equip ourselves intellectually to counter the emerging nationalistic persuasion and centralizing tendencies that seek to overshadow regional identities.

The Minister makes a distinction between the Certificate of Identification (COI) and a domicile certificate, but this difference is largely semantic, failing to address the core issue at hand. While the COI grants certain privileges, it still ties individuals to a pre-merger status, which could be challenged under broader national domicile policies in the future. The assumption that regional reservations based on historical status will remain intact amidst the shifting legal landscape seems overly optimistic and disregards the dynamic nature of legal interpretations.

Any Sikkimese person who places unwavering trust in the status quo may overlook the looming possibility that future judicial reviews could challenge the validity of Sikkim Subject-based reservations. The reality is stark: the Supreme Court could revisit this issue at any moment, especially with new legal arguments or shifts in the country’s legal philosophy. Judicial oversight is not static; it’s an evolving process. Sikkim must be prepared to defend its position on regional rights with a well-prepared and robust argument.

Raju Basnet, like many Sikkimese, would like to assert the invulnerability of Sikkimese identity. However, it’s time we reconsider our stance in the current political environment, where the logic of ‘One Nation, One Domicile’ is gaining traction in some political circles.
Finally, I had a sneaky laugh when I read his overly sentimental claim: “Sikkimese rights are protected till the last son of Sikkim.” Sikkim has such a glorious history of bravery, doesn’t it? More like a history of political leaders shifting their allegiances faster than seasons change, always eager to be on the right side of power. So, who exactly is this “last son of Sikkim”? Maybe he’s the one who’s been conveniently absent whenever bravery or backbone was needed.

Sikkim’s unique identity could be gradually marginalized in the pursuit of national cohesion. The claim that Sikkimese rights are protected ‘till the last son of Sikkim’ is overly sentimental and ignores the fact that regional identities are often lost or diluted in the process of nation-building.

Whether we like it or not, overconfidence in the protection of Sikkimese rights is unhelpful. India’s long-standing democracy has shown that legal protections for regional rights hinge on political will. It's crucial to avoid overconfidence and sentimentalism. It's time to move beyond an idealized view of Sikkim’s special status. We must take legal evolution and growing centralization of political power seriously. We must approach Sikkim's political stance with a much more nuanced and vigilant mindset, fully aware of the forces at play.
Jiwan Rai.

01/02/2025

श्री पवन चामलिङलाई अर्को अन्तर्राष्ट्रिय साहित्यिक सम्मान

साहित्यकार श्री पवन चामलिङलाई छिमेकी राष्ट्र नेपालको प्रतिष्ठित संस्था मदन भण्डारी कला-संस्थानले सम्मान जनाउने घोषणा गरेको छ। यस प्रतिष्ठानले आगामी १४-१६ मार्चमा काठमान्डौँमा हिम्वतखण्ड कला- साहित्य-संस्कृति सम्मिलन-२०८१ आयोजना गरिरहेको छ। उक्त सम्मेलनमा श्री चामलिङलाई “हिम्वतखण्ड कला- साहित्य-संस्कृति सम्मान २०८१” ग्रहण गर्न र सम्मिलनमा “हिम्वतखण्डमा नेपाली भाषा र नेपाली लोकसंस्कृतिको अवस्था” विषयमाथि आफ्नो सम्बोधन राख्न विशिष्ट अतिथिका रूपमा मदन भण्डारी कला-संस्थानले आमन्त्रण गरेको छ।

26/01/2025

Republic Day Message

Today marks a momentous occasion in our history when, in 1950, India adopted its Constitution, becoming a sovereign and democratic republic. This transformative day signaled the end of the Government of India Act, 1935, which had governed us until then, and heralded the journey of a nation guided by its own vision. After more than 200 years of colonial rule and oppression, Republic Day stands as a symbol of India’s emergence as an independent, self-sufficient, and free nation. This year, we celebrate Republic Day under the theme: Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas—Golden India: Heritage and Development.

This historic day reminds us of the sacrifices and contributions of our founding fathers who fought tirelessly for our freedom. It is a time to honor those who gave their lives in the struggle for liberty, enabling us to live a life of dignity and self-determination. We must also celebrate the visionary leadership of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, whose pivotal role in drafting the Constitution has shaped the nation we live in today. Furthermore, this day is an opportunity to pay tribute to the countless soldiers who continue to protect our borders with unwavering dedication.

The Constitution of India forms the bedrock of our laws and values. While it governs us, it is equally our responsibility to safeguard it. The Constitution acts as a protective shield for every citizen, and our rights are secure only as long as the Constitution remains strong. Similarly, for Sikkim, Article 371F serves as our constitutional safeguard, preserving our special rights and identity. Protecting Article 371F is not just a duty but a necessity for the future of Sikkim. During the tenure of the SDF government, our foremost priority was to protect Article 371F, which we did with utmost vigilance and care.

Sikkim joined India 28 years after the country’s independence through a historic and democratic referendum. This decision reflected Sikkim’s patriotism and its commitment to nation-building. In recognition of this sacrifice, I had proposed to the Central Government to replace “Sindh” with “Sikkim” in the national anthem, acknowledging Sikkim’s unique contribution. Our choice to become a part of India through a referendum is unparalleled in history and deserves its rightful recognition.

However, in recent years, Article 371F has faced significant dilution. Instead of implementing the Inner Line Permit, the Citizenship Amendment Act (2019) has been introduced in Sikkim. Similarly, while our earlier Motor Vehicles Act and Registration of Companies Act remain valid, the Central Acts have been enforced, undermining our special provisions. The implementation of the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Act, 2023 is another instance of this dilution. The most damaging blow came on 13th January 2023, when the definition of “Sikkimese” was redefined, placing non-Sikkim Subject holders on par with Sikkim Subject holders. Over the last five years, we have witnessed a steady dilution of Article 371F, which poses a grave threat to Sikkim’s identity and rights.

On a broader level, India as a whole faces critical challenges. Despite the Constitution’s commitment to secularism, our nation is increasingly divided along religious lines. According to a 2022 Pew Research Center report, India ranked highest among 198 nations in an index measuring religion-related hostilities. While the Constitution guarantees equality before the law regardless of religion, caste, s*x, or place of birth, caste-based discrimination and untouchability remain harsh realities.

The Constitution provides us with a framework for the nation we aspire to build, but it is only through our actions—by practicing and protecting its provisions—that we can bring this vision to life.

It is our duty to safeguard and strengthen democratic institutions. Only then can these institutions protect the rights of every citizen. On this Republic Day, let us pledge to uphold and protect the Constitution of India. As Sikkimese people, let us take a solemn vow to defend Article 371F and preserve Sikkim’s unique rights and identity.

Jai Hind!

23/01/2025

The news of the demise of Shri Kajee Singh is a profound loss for the Gorkha community of India. A Padma Shri awardee, he received the prestigious honor in 2022 for his outstanding contributions to preserving and promoting music, particularly through the percussion instrument Madal. Shri Singh invented the classical notes for the Shree Madal in 1974 and founded the Sanskriti Sangrakshan Sansthan in Kalimpong.

Shree Kaajee Singh also spent time in Sikkim as a music teacher and has authored several books on folk music and instruments. At the time of his passing in a Siliguri hospital, he was 80 years old. His loss resonates deeply in Sikkim and beyond.

My heartfelt condolences go out to his family during this difficult time. May his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

22/01/2025

18/01/2025

ON ORGANIC DAY 2025

Organic Agriculture: Sikkim’s Historic Achievement

Agriculture is believed to have originated in the Fertile Crescent, or the Levant region of the Near East, about 12,000 years ago. Over millennia, agricultural practices have evolved significantly, but it was in Sikkim that a groundbreaking policy of organic agriculture was implemented for the entire state for the first time. Before this, organic farming was primarily practiced by organizations or conscious farming communities. Never before Sikkim had an entire state or country committed to becoming fully organic.

In 2003, Sikkim began its journey toward achieving full organic status with the adoption of a resolution in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly. Since agriculture is a state subject, it was not required to obtain permission from the Centre Government and so we took our own decision to go fully organic. After 12 years of dedicated effort and sacrifice, Sikkim attained 100% organic status on 31st December 2015. With dedication and commitment, we were able to transform the state into organic. On 18th January 2016, it was officially declared India’s first fully organic state, making Sikkim the first organic state in the world.

This remarkable accomplishment earned recognition and appreciation not only at the national level but also globally. Sikkim received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Future Policy Gold Award in 2018 from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, as well as the One World Award from Rapunzel and IFOAM in 2017. Just as the Fertile Crescent is considered the cradle of agriculture, Sikkim can proudly claim to be the pioneer of state-wide organic farming, setting a global benchmark and creating history in the process.

With unwavering political will and the courage to pursue a seemingly impossible vision, we embarked on a long and challenging journey to achieve 100% organic farming. When we declared our intent to go fully organic, there were no existing models to replicate or case studies to guide us—this was a global “first.” We had to forge our own path, developing the unique “Sikkim brand” of organic farming. From building physical infrastructure to developing expertise, motivating employees, and creating methods for producing organic fertilizers and pesticides, we had to learn and innovate at every step.

One of the key steps was the phased banning of chemical pesticides. However, the greatest challenge was motivating the people. Transitioning to fully organic farming required a fundamental shift in perspective. Shortly after the announcement, the Secretary of the Agriculture and Horticulture Department resigned in opposition to the policy, and we faced strong criticism from opposition parties. Despite these obstacles, our unwavering political will carried us forward to achieve this ambitious goal.

The true heroes of this historic achievement were the farmers of Sikkim, who fully embraced and supported this mission, along with the dedicated employees who provided their expertise and commitment. They
are the true pioneers of organic agriculture on a global scale.

As Sikkimese, we must take immense pride in this historic accomplishment. It is crucial to acknowledge and appreciate the collective efforts that have led to this groundbreaking milestone. At the same time, we must remain committed to preserving and nurturing the organic farming practices that we achieved through years of tireless dedication.

It has been Sikkim’s message to the world that 100% organic is completely possible. It is a form of agriculture that is immensely beneficial to the people, the environment and ultimately to Mother Earth. Hence, this legacy is not just a milestone for Sikkim but a contribution to non-violent and sustainable agriculture worldwide. On the occasion of Organic Day 2025, I congratulate the people of Sikkim for this historic achievement and wish them a happy and healthy future.

Happy Organic Day!

Pawan Chamling

17/01/2025

Insightful article of Ms. Komal Chamling:-

ROMAN CIRCUS IN SIKKIM
- Komal Chamling

Introduction

Recently, social media in Sikkim has been abuzz with the “Ed Sheeran debate”. The announcement to bring the international artist for the 50th Golden Jubilee of Sikkim’s statehood celebrations has unfortunately overshadowed a historical milestone for Sikkim. One side of the debate has questioned whether it is financially viable for Sikkim to bring an international star and whether the state’s priorities are misplaced. On the other hand, the pro-government voice has defended the announcement, saying that it will boost tourism and create employment opportunities. Amid mounting criticism, the Chief Minister has also made a u-turn on his earlier announcement that the government would be bringing the singer, now stating on 12th Jan that the singer would be brought to Sikkim solely with the help of sponsorships.

However, the issue is not whether to bring or not to bring Ed Sheeran. With the hyper focus on the musician, we are missing the point that completing 50 years as a state is a historical event which gives us an opportunity to take stock as a state, review the issues that are pending and plan for a future where Sikkim’s unique status and identity remains protected. The misplaced public focus on the international artist is exactly an outcome of the “Roman Circus” or “Bread and Circuses” policy that has been implemented by the SKM government since the beginning of its tenure in 2019.

The Roman Circus Analogy

The idea of a “Roman Circus” is when a government distracts the public from real issues with entertainment and direct benefits. “Give them bread and circuses and they will never revolt”, said the Roman poet, Juvenal, who is credited for the name of this theory. The poet saw “bread and circuses” as being symbolic of the loss of political liberty. Meeting the public’s immediate needs with entertainment, food, money, etc, governments divert the populace from real issues of governance, while preventing revolt or dissent. The fact that the entire state is focused on Ed Sheeran debate today is a win on the part of the Roman Circus approach of the SKM government, an approach that has been implemented since 2019.

We have seen this theory in action when the SKM government decided to hold a State Level Fish Mela in the middle of MG Marg on 20th April 2021, a time when Sikkim was grappling with the second wave of COVID-19. To provide context, in late April 2021, India was leading the world with new and active cases. Currently, the entire government machinery is focused on planning and promoting Maghe Sakranti celebrations, which are to feature a line up of national and international musicians. Meanwhile, the dilapidated condition of the roads remains unchanged, salaries yet remain to be paid on time, and serious patients in need of urgent tests wait for months for an available date at the New STNM hospital.

In recent days, Sikkim has been engulfed by a wave of robberies. In the first week of the new year, more than 7 lakhs worth of construction materials were stolen from MG Marg. It has become daily news to read about house break-ins and unfortunately, even temples have not been spared from theft. The alarming rise of robberies in Sikkim signals severe economic distress. While unemployment and economic hardships prevail, the modus operandi of the government has been to keep the public busy with shows, festivals and Tambola. In a populist move, an announcement was made on 4th Jan 2024, to much applause, limiting the operating hours of discos and pubs to 11 pm. Yet, Tambola nights continue on without any curfews or oversight. While economic hardships abound, Tambola events organised by ruling party members serve as the main form of entertainment in villages.

50 years of Statehood: The Real Issues

50 years of statehood is a grand event that warrants a wider look at how far we have come as a state, how we have transitioned into democracy, what our approach for Sikkim’s pending political issues are and whether our rights as guaranteed by Article 371F are protected. It is also a time to take stock of the progress we have made in 50 years and to honour those who contributed to the democratic movement that led to the merger of the erstwhile Kingdom to India.

As members of the SDF party, we campaigned during the 2024 elections on the issue of protecting the special rights and identity of the Sikkimese people guaranteed by Article 371F. The Sikkim-centric campaign of “Sikkim Bachao” was focused on “revisiting” the conditions of the merger as guaranteed by the Constitution of India and safeguarding our special rights for posterity. The SDF party took this stand as within the first tenure of the SKM government, we witnessed a blatant attack on our special identity with a redefinition of what it means to be “Sikkimese” via the Supreme Court Judgement of AOSS vs Union of India case.

The judgement was later given constitutional cover by the passing of the Finance Act 2023 which amended Section 10(26AAA) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, thus inserting a 5th category of “Sikkimese”. This category of Sikkim would be anyone not domiciled in Sikkim before 26th April 1975 but who can establish beyond doubt that their father, husband, paternal grandfather or brother was domiciled before the aforementioned date. With the mounting public anger, the SKM government held a Special Assembly session and formed a committee to recommend ways and means to protect the special rights and identity of the Sikkimese people. The committee did not convene a meeting even once.

Less visible but equally damaging encroachments were the implementation of the One Nation One Ration Card according to which, one does not need a Sikkim Subject certificate to make a ration card in Sikkim. On the basis of the ration card, one can make a voter card and become a voter in Sikkim. Furthermore, the Registration of Birth and Deaths (Amendment) Act, 2023 ensures that anyone born in Sikkim will gain equal rights as Sikkimese people. Similarly the Central Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act 2019, Citizenship Amendment Act 2019 and National Register of Citizens are other laws which have been implemented without a single discussion in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly. Even though our Old Laws, as protected by the Constitution exist, these centrist policies have been implemented without much forethought on the delicate balance of our unique identity and rights within the federal structure of the country. This signals a future where migration and influx will erase our unique culture, society and political safeguards.

In the last few years, the demand for the implementation of the Inner Line Permit was often heard in the public domain. The SKM government formed a nine member committee vide Notification No 04/Home/2023. The report of the committee is yet to be made public or implemented. The people of Sikkim are worried about the dangers of influx and demographic change. However, the laws implemented under the SKM government, far from checking influx, are actively promoting it. In 2018-19, the number of Sikkim Subject voters was 3,46,000. It is probable that Sikkim’s population today is well over 7 lakhs today. Needless to say, Sikkim Subject holders are on the way to becoming a minority.

Furthermore, there are also many pending political issues such as the Limbu-Tamang seat for which a formula is yet to be shared, despite the SKM party campaigning in 2019 that they would bring the LT seat within 10 days of forming the government. Scheduled Tribe recognition for the 12 Left Out Communities is yet to be achieved. There is no clear plan of the government in bringing the Karmapa to the state. These are the things that we should be thinking about and debating as we approach 50 years of statehood.

Looking Back, Moving Forward

Looking back at our 50 years of statehood, Sikkim, rapidly progressed from being one of the poorest states in India to one of the top states on many indicators. Sikkim contributed to the nation with world renowned policies such as the first organic state in the world and gained international fame with Lonely Planet recognising Sikkim as the number tourist destination in 2014. Achievements like the first Nirmal Rajya, the Greenest state, and the fastest poverty reduction from 41.43% in 1993 to 3% in 2019 have established Sikkim’s image as a progressive state. While Sikkim has seen rapid social and economic progress, the political safeguards for the Sikkimese people as guaranteed by the Constitution have been blatantly violated in the last few years. At the same time, many of our long pending political issues remain unsolved. These are the things that need our valuable attention as we approach 50 years as a state.

Unfortunately, Sikkim is a deeply divided state; political leanings so strongly define our opinions that in the push to one-upping another political front, we often miss the issues that actually matter. Furthermore, the Roman Circus approach of the SKM government has captured the imagination of the public so strongly that the crucial debate on our 50 years of existence as a state of India has been reduced to Ed Sheeran. In these 50 years of democratic exercise as Sikkimese people, it is time to think deeply about what we have gained and what we have lost. Have we used or misused this hard earned democracy? As we go through complex political transformations, what does the future hold for Sikkim? In this extravagant Roman Circus that we find ourselves, let us not forget what actually matters.

08/12/2024

https://youtu.be/6V0TXhsAuQM?si=CgkLYQuwUv1yvhNh

Darjeeling Talks Brings The Latest Nepali News Based From Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kharsang, Siliguri, Doars, Sikkim and NorthEast.

06/12/2024

"It is no use crying over spilt milk".

Since the formation of the SKM government, there has been a complete disregard for constitutional norms, government systems, rules and regulations. Democratic norms are not followed and the SKM government has worked disregarding rules and regulations, through multiple fake promises and deception. This has become clear in the SKM style of governance in the last 6 years.

Earlier, the Chief Minister has finished promoting all their near and dear ones. We saw D grade employees being promoted to BDO and C grade employees to motor vehicle and food inspector. Graduate teachers have been promoted to SDM and ADC. After finishing cherry picking those close to SKM for promotion, now this circular has been published saying that no promotion will be given by post upgradation. This circular is clear evidence of the favouritism and nepotism rampant in the SKM government. It is indicative of the administrative failure of the SKM government.

Earlier, the qualifying year of service was 6 years minimum after which a post became vacant, automatic promotion would take place. But the SKM government does not believe in the qualifying year of service. And now they have taken out a circular saying they cannot be promoted by post upgradation. This is a huge disservice to government employees of Sikkim.

04/12/2024

Message to the people of Sikkim

In these elections SKM won and SDF lost, using all means possible: using black money, fake allotment of Garib Awas Yojana and other schemes, fake appointment orders, muscle power, politicising religion and caste, government machinery and mass tampering of voting machines. SKM supporters are happy while SDF supporters are unhappy, this is the reality of elections.

This is the reality whereby many contest the elections but there can only be one winner. But no matter which party wins the elections, the janta must not lose. In this election, it was not just the SDF party that faced defeat; it was the Sikkimese janta who lost. The future of our communities, our rights, protections, and unique identity faced a defeat as the very essence of what it means to be Sikkimese was redefined. The result of this election has made SDF supporters unhappy but one day every Sikkimese janta will be unhappy as the consequences of this election become clear.

In every election, it is essential for the people of Sikkim—the janta—to emerge victorious, as their triumph ensures the state's progress and future. Democracy's primary purpose is to empower the people, uplift humanity, and safeguard our nation's growth and prosperity. By securing the future of Sikkim through active participation and wise decision-making, we not only protect our heritage but also pave the way for a brighter tomorrow for the generations to come.