Sikkim: Social organisations, SDF slam govt over Chogyal Dynasty remark

An alleged remark against the Chogyals of Sikkim by Secretary, Sports Department, Raju Basnet has sparked a major controversy in the state.
As per allegations by the Sikkim Sherpa Protection Board and others, the secretary sports department, Raju Basnet during the recent visit to Delhi to meet tribal affairs minister Arjun Munda made a derogatory remark against the erstwhile Chogyal dynasty drawing similarities between it and Mughal emperor Babur and his descendents.
The remark was allegedly made during the submission of representation demanding tribal status for 12 ethnic groups of Sikkim. This is being seen as an indirect way of attacking the rights of the Bhutia-Lepcha community of the state.
This has sparked a massive row even drawing sharp reactions from SDF leader Bhaichung Bhutia who expressed shock that such a remark was allegedly made in the presence of CM PS Tamang.
“The reported comments made by Raju Basnet during the meeting questioning the tribal status of Bhutia-Lepcha communities are unacceptable,” Bhutia said.
Expressing dismay at Basnet’s remarks, Bhutia highlighted the need for solidarity among communities and denounced attempts to undermine the rights of those already possessing tribal status.
Passang Sherpa, General Secretary of Sikkimay Nagarik Samaj and Sonam Sherpa, President of the Sikkim Sherpa Protection Board, strongly condemned Basnet’s alleged derogatory remarks.
Former Minister Tshering Wangdi Lepcha also joined the condemnation, expressing support for the demand for tribal status while cautioning against questioning the BL community’s existing status.

Watch also: Alleged remark against Chogyals of Sikkim by Secy, Sports Dept, Raju Basnet sparks controversy