SDF declares “Black Day,” urges public to refrain from celebrations

Sikkim Democratic Front designates tomorrow as "Black Day" in protest against the ruling SKM government's celebrations

The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) has announced tomorrow as a “Black Day,” calling upon the citizens of Sikkim to abstain from participating in the ongoing celebrations of ‘Jan Unmukti’ organized by the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government.

Speaking to Northeast Live, Krishna Kharel, the Vice President of Publicity for the SDF stated “The SKM government can hold its celebrations and engage with the public in their legal manner. However, the release of a convicted individual involved in corruption cannot be seen as a true expression of Jan Unmukti.”

The SDF’s concerns stem from the corruption convictions of several individuals within the SKM government, including Chief Minister Tamang. The court’s verdict on these corruption charges has raised questions about the propriety of celebrating “Jan Unmukti Diwas” in light of the state’s ongoing challenges and governance issues.

“We have a problem because a convicted corrupt individual leaving jail does not equate to ‘Jan Unmukti.’ The celebrations, under these circumstances, cannot be considered genuine,” Kharel asserted. He further emphasized that the government’s actions risk manipulating public sentiment and the significant problems faced by the citizens.

Since Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang’s release from jail on August 10, 2018, the SKM government has annually commemorated “Jan Unmukti Diwas.” However, the SDF’s call for a “Black Day” and their appeal for public restraint reflect a growing sentiment of disillusionment with the current administration’s handling of governance and accountability.

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