Sikkim: BJP MP and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology (2024–25), Dr. Nishikant Dubey, is currently on a four-day visit to Guwahati, Siliguri and Gangtok. During his visit to Gangtok on Wednesday, Dr. Dubey praised Sikkim’s rapid development and voiced strong support for awarding the Bharat Ratna to His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Speaking to media persons and local officials, Dr. Dubey said, “The Dalai Lama is deeply respected by every Indian. He is a spiritual leader not just for the people of the Himalayas but for the entire world.”
Reflecting on his personal connection to Buddhist heritage, he added, “I come from Vikramshila, the village that gave the world Lord Atisha Dipankara, one of the greatest Buddhist scholars. He laid the foundation for the traditions of the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama. For me and my people, it would be a great honour to see the Dalai Lama receive the Bharat Ratna.”
Dubey also lauded the pace of development in Sikkim, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, connectivity and tourism. Describing the state as “India’s Switzerland,” he praised its natural beauty, peaceful environment, and civic discipline. “Sikkim is very peaceful. The people here are forward-thinking. Law and order is very good,” he remarked.
He also reviewed key ongoing infrastructure projects, including the Sevoke–Rangpo rail line, which is nearing completion and expected to be operational by August 2025. “The upcoming railway connection from Siliguri will bring Sikkim closer to the rest of India not just in terms of distance, but development as well,” he said.
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