Is Sikkim CM Tamang Planning to Usurp Darjeeling From West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee? CAP Slams SKM Govt Over Secrecy in Sikkim-Darjeeling Meeting

Rai highlighted that the meeting was discussed during a recent gathering of SKM legislators but was omitted from the official press release.

Citizen Action Party (CAP) President Ganesh Kumar Rai has raised serious concerns over a meeting in Delhi involving leaders from Sikkim and Darjeeling. He questioned the purpose of the meeting, its location, and the exclusion of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee from discussions concerning Darjeeling.

Rai highlighted that the meeting was discussed during a recent gathering of SKM legislators but was omitted from the official press release. Minister Raju Basnet had previously stated that discussions would focus on the inclusion of 12 left-out communities in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) list. However, with the deadline for submitting a report on the matter now expired, CAP questioned the necessity of a meeting with Darjeeling leaders.

Rai accused the ruling SKM party of fueling speculation about a Sikkim-Darjeeling merger, despite opposing such discussions while in opposition. He demanded a clear assurance from the government that no such merger would take place.

“When the issue of income tax exemption arose, the definition of being Sikkimese changed forever. Now, we are facing a similar situation. SKM must clarify its stand and assure that the interests of Sikkim and Article 371F are not being compromised,” Rai stated.

Referring to the Supreme Court’s verdict on January 29, 2025, which rejected state-based domicile reservations for postgraduate medical courses, CAP raised concerns about its potential impact on Sikkim’s special status under Article 371F. While the Additional Advocate General assured that the ruling does not affect Article 371F, CAP warned that Sikkim’s identity is under threat at the national level.

“The SKM government must take a firm stand to protect Article 371F instead of allowing situations that could weaken it. A clear assurance should be given in the State Assembly,” demanded Rai.

CAP also criticised the government’s decision to proceed with the reconstruction of the Teesta Stage 3 dam without public consultation. Scientific studies have warned that South Lhonak Lake remains vulnerable to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF), yet the government has ignored environmental risks. CAP insisted that no further dams should be built in Sikkim without proper environmental assessments and public approval.

The party condemned recent remarks by Samson Tamang against the Khas Chettri-Bahun community. CAP had filed an FIR at Sadar Thana, but only a general diary entry was made. Rai alleged that Tamang, who has ties to SKM and MP Indra Hang Subba, was being used to divert public attention from the controversial Delhi meeting.

Despite the uproar, SKM has neither condemned Tamang’s statement nor taken action. CAP demanded a strong response from the government.

With growing concerns over Sikkim’s future, CAP has urged the SKM-led government to provide clear answers in the State Assembly and protect the interests of the people.

Also Read: Sikkim: BJP Criticises Environment Ministry’s Nod to Reconstruct Teesta Dam III, Terms it ‘Reckless’

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