Gangtok: Former Chief Minister Pawan Chamling is promising a 50% reservation for Sikkimese women in government jobs and higher education if the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) is re-elected to power.
Addressing a public meeting in Daramdin bazaar, Soreng district, Chamling highlighted the SDF’s track record in promoting social justice and women’s empowerment during its 25-year governance. He emphasised that his party would build on these efforts by extending the reservation policy to government jobs and higher education.
Chamling, who is spearheading the SDF’s election campaign, outlined several developmental programs tailored for West Sikkim, including the establishment of a Sherpa World Heritage & Culture Centre at Ribdi-Bhareng. He also unveiled plans to develop one thousand new tourism points across the state, with a particular focus on branding Soreng district as a nature and cultural tourism destination.
Furthermore, Chamling pledged to designate West Sikkim, specifically Soreng and Geyzing districts, as a new industrial zone, with initiatives aimed at attracting green industries like liquid hydrogen and semiconductor manufacturing units. He emphasized that such endeavors would not only create job opportunities but also enhance land value and trade activities in the region.
Asserting that the return of the SDF to power would signify a resurgence of development in West Sikkim, Chamling assured voters of an era of peace and security under his government. He stressed the party’s commitment to simplicity in campaigning, focusing on engaging with the public on its programs and agendas.
In addition to the reservation policy for women, the SDF’s election promises include free education up to university level for Sikkimese students in state-run universities and a renewed emphasis on qualitative primary education. Chamling also pledged direct fund transfers to parents for the purchase of school uniforms for their children.
Meanwhile, SDF Lok Sabha candidate PD Rai criticized the incumbent SKM government and MP Indra Hang Subba for their handling of central-related issues and pending demands of Sikkim. Rai called for support for the SDF to address these issues effectively, including the long-standing Limboo-Tamang seat reservation demand.
The SDF has fielded candidates such as Pem Norbu Sherpa for the Daramdin constituency and Dr. AD Subba for the Soreng-Chakung constituency. Both candidates vowed to prioritise the interests of their constituents and work tirelessly for their welfare if elected.
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