Gangtok: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Sikkim for the closing ceremony marking 50 years of the State’s statehood, with civil society organisations and community leaders outlining a mix of long-pending political demands and calls for development and welfare measures.
General Secretary of the Akhil Sikkim Khas Chettri Bahun Kalyan Sangh, Dewakar Basnet, described the visit as a historic moment and said the community hopes the Centre will address the long-standing concerns of the 12 left-out communities, particularly regarding tribal status and recognition.
He added that beyond community-specific demands, people are keen to hear the Prime Minister’s vision for Sikkim’s future growth and development.
Echoing similar sentiments, Bimal Kumar Rai, President of the Akhil Kirat Rai Sangh, reiterated the demand for tribal status and recognition of the 12 left-out communities.
He said there is hope that the State government will place these concerns before the Prime Minister and that a positive outcome will emerge.
Adding to these demands, Binod Yonzon, President of the Sikkim Tamang Buddhist Association, highlighted a key political issue.
While the Limboo-Tamang communities were granted Scheduled Tribe status in 2003, he said the demand for reservation of seats in the State Legislative Assembly remains unresolved. Yonzon expressed hope that this long-pending issue would be addressed to ensure proper political representation.
From the employees’ front, Pema Doma Bhutia, President of the National Movement for Old Pension Scheme (NMOPS), pointed to the growing demand for implementation of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) in Sikkim.
She said that while the organisation has placed its trust in the State government, financial constraints remain a concern. Bhutia expressed hope that the Prime Minister’s visit, coinciding with the 50-year celebrations, could bring a significant announcement or “gift” for government employees in the form of OPS implementation. She added that the organisation has submitted its appeal through proper channels, reflecting the collective sentiment of employees across the State.
Bhutia also stressed the importance of safeguarding Sikkim’s special constitutional provisions under Article 371F while pursuing broader development goals, noting that employees are looking for concrete steps to ensure financial security and long-term welfare.
Meanwhile, local concerns over infrastructure and essential services were raised by K.G. Namgyal, President of the Lal Bazar Youth Development Committee. He highlighted the need for improved roads, better infrastructure, stable electricity supply, and resolution of water shortages.
He also flagged the recent LPG shortage and called for timely intervention. Namgyal said people have high expectations from the Centre and expressed confidence that the Prime Minister’s leadership would bring positive changes.
Adding to public expectations, former Army official Subedar Ranjit Khaling said the Prime Minister’s visit to a small State like Sikkim has generated significant enthusiasm. He expressed hope that key concerns, particularly quality education, water supply, and electricity, would be addressed.
Representing the ex-servicemen community, Khaling also raised the demand for provision of 100 units of free electricity for former Army personnel and voiced concern over any move to reduce existing benefits. He added that despite ongoing challenges, Sikkim has made notable progress over the past 50 years.
Also Read: BJP’s mixed signals on indigeneity risk deepening fault lines in Meghalaya