Latest news with #SikkimDay
The Wire
18-05-2025
- Politics
- The Wire
Sikkim@50: Violence Is the New Normal
Menu हिंदी తెలుగు اردو Home Politics Economy World Security Law Science Society Culture Editor's Pick Opinion Support independent journalism. Donate Now Politics Sikkim@50: Violence Is the New Normal Jiwan Rai 17 minutes ago For now, the golden jubilee's most pressing question may well be this – how many more must bleed before justice is not merely promised, but delivered? In this image released by @PSTamangGolay via X on May 16, 2025, Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur with Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang takes part in a 'Tiranga Yatra' to express solidarity with the Indian armed forces, in Sikkim. This was also the day when the state marked its 50th anniversary of statehood. Photo: Via PTI. Real journalism holds power accountable Since 2015, The Wire has done just that. But we can continue only with your support. Donate now May 16 is 'Sikkim Day', which marks the former kingdom's integration with India in 1975. Sikkim is celebrating 50 years of integration with the world's largest democracy. But behind the roar of celebration resound the cries of young voices who dared to dissent. If political intolerance in Sikkim had a colour today, it would be a deep, unforgiving crimson. Blood has become the new price for dissent. Violence is no longer an aberration; it has become the chilling new normal. The situation has deteriorated so drastically that even the state's Bharatiya Janata Party, the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha's own ally, as admitted by chief minister Prem Singh Tamang himself at the India Today Conclave, was forced to convene a press conference on May 6, demanding an intervention by the Police Accountability Commission. When the national ruling party must publicly beg for institutional restraint in a state, the indictment could not be more damning. A macabre pattern of escalating violence against opposition figures in Sikkim is hard to ignore. From the daylight assault on SDF leader J.B. Darnal in June 2020 to the recent attacks on Anand Rai on May 2 and Citizen Action Party youth leader Ashish Rai on May 5, the narrative remains alarmingly consistent: individuals critical of the state establishment are brutally assaulted and perpetrators are hardly given exemplary punishment. In July 2021, a vocal SDF youth leader Arun Limbu, along with his sister and sister-in-law, were brutally attacked. Similarly, his party colleague, Rajesh Walling Rai was assaulted by a mob just outside the Sadar Police Station in Gangtok, with the video going viral. If the state's premier police station no longer deters violence, what hope remains for the average citizen across the state? The viral and damning video of Keshav Sapkota, general secretary of the Joint Action Council being attacked on the Singtam Bridge on April 8, 2023 by a mob as Sikkim Police stood by exposes the helplessness of those in uniform and the law and order situation of the state. The JAC was protesting against the redefinition of the term 'Sikkimese' in relation to tax exemptions for 'old settlers.' Tashi Gyatso Bhutia, another SDF youth leader, was assaulted in March 2023. Then in March 2024, there was the shocking and near-fatal attack on K.N. Rai, the former assembly Speaker. A man in his mid-60s, already battling a rare and debilitating illness was brutally assaulted and left so grievously wounded that he had to be airlifted to Delhi for emergency treatment. S.K. Timsina and Chandra Khaling were also attacked in the same incident. Young thugs targeting a defenceless former public servant weakened by prolonged medical treatment is quite telling – it exposes a culture that is rotting from within. The shift is a screaming red alarm. Other opposition leaders who were attacked include Binod Rai, former MLA, Aron Rai, Jack Rai, Tashi Palki Bhutia, Suman Chamling, Ramesh Kirat Rai, Mahesh Gurung, Sonam Tamang Dhanbahadur Tamang, Sidhant Subba, Noel Sharma and Phurden Bhutia. The list is by no means exhaustive. Each episode leaves behind not just a wounded body, but a wounded democracy. In February 2023, the SDF headquarters, the party office in Namchi and the Gangtok house of its party president – the state's former CM Pawan Chamling – were pelted with stones during a bandh called by the SDF to protest a Supreme Court observation referring to the Sikkimese Nepali community as 'immigrants.' On the night of June 10, 2024, shortly after the swearing-in of the new SKM government, several opposition leaders' homes were targeted in stone-pelting incidents. Among those affected were Bhaichung Bhutia's residence in Lumsey and Mechung Bhutia's property in Burtuk. CCTV footage captured masked individuals throwing stones at these properties. These attacks are frequent and appear to signal a systemic breakdown of law and order along with a collapse of accountability. The repeated targeting of opposition members will gradually weaken the foundations of democracy and demands urgent action from both state and central authorities to ensure the safety and rights of all political participants. The Sikkim Police, once a symbol of public trust, now finds itself at the centre of mounting criticism. The true tragedy lies not only in the blood staining Sikkim's streets but in the betrayal of its founding ideals and the slow suffocation of its democratic soul. As the state marks 50 years of democracy, the gulf between its founding promise and current reality yawns wider with each act of repression. This relentless cycle of political violence forces us to confront an urgent question: What can the future hold when dissent is repeatedly crushed? While banners proclaim 'Sikkim@50,' we must ask the uncomfortable question: can a democracy endure when it fears and resents the voice of its own people? Do we possess the courage to confront the cruel irony of the fact that the glowing tributes and grandiose fanfare seen in this historic celebration stand in grotesque contrast to broken bodies and silenced voices? The youth of this fifty-year-old democracy, who dared to challenge, question, and demand accountability, now bear the cost: hospital beds instead of podiums and fear instead of freedom. For now, the golden jubilee's most pressing question may well be this: How many more must bleed before justice is not merely promised, but delivered? Jiwan Rai is a social and political commentator from Sikkim. He can be reached at jiwanr@ Make a contribution to Independent Journalism Related News Congress Renews Call to Remove 50% Cap on Reservations, Demands Timeline for Caste Census Changing Direction: The Wire's Short Film Festival Pressing Unmute: The Wire Marks 10 Years With a Celebration of Fearlessness The Many Meanings of Vietnam The Vanquished West: 50 Years After the End of Vietnam War, a Memoir of Resistance by the Global South Vietnam War 50 Years On: How It Changed Perception of War Mahavir Singh, Who Has Faded From Memory, Embodied the HSRA's 'Revolutionary Habitus' 'Saying Caste Census Will Take Place Not Enough': Opp Keeps up Pressure After BJP's U-Turn 'We Want Dates' Says Opposition as Modi Government Approves Caste Census in Sharp Reversal View in Desktop Mode About Us Contact Us Support Us © Copyright. All Rights Reserved.
Hans India
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta leads Sikkim Day celebrations at Secretariat
New Delhi: In continuation of the initiative by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to celebrate the foundation days of various states, the Department of Art, Culture, and Language organised a cultural programme at the Delhi Secretariat to celebrate Sikkim Day on Friday. The objective of the event was to showcase the glorious cultural heritage, lively traditions, and historical legacy of the state of Sikkim, said an official. Around 20 artistes associated with the Sahitya Kala Parishad presented captivating performances of Sikkim's folk dances, folk music, and traditional arts, bringing to life the diverse culturally rich of the state, he said. Chief Minister Gupta said: "A significant number of Sikkim citizens reside in Delhi, contributing remarkably to the progress of not only their state but the entire nation through their hard work, dedication, and diligence.' She said Sikkim is renowned not only for its natural beauty but also for its rich cultural heritage, peaceful lifestyle, and commitment to development, setting an example for the entire country. 'On this special day, I wish the people of Sikkim happiness, good health, and continuous progress,' she said. Minister of Art, Culture, and Language Kapil Mishra said: 'Sikkim is a leading state in India, not only culturally but also in terms of tourism, social, and economic contributions. The social, cultural, and educational collaboration between Delhi and Sikkim is continuously strengthening, and this partnership will grow even stronger in the coming years." He said the state's rich heritage, inspiring traditions, and historical contributions are a matter of pride for the nation. 'On this auspicious occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the people of Sikkim,' he said. The traditional Sikkimese folk dance mesmerised the audience at the Delhi Secretariat. This group dance, performed by the Tamang community, features vigorous footwork, intricate sounds, and the use of the Damphu instrument, symbolising joy and celebration. Additionally, performances of the Khampa, Lion Dance, and Mask Dance by male and female artistes dressed in traditional attire created an atmosphere of joy and enthusiasm at the Secretariat premises. A special exhibition was also organised to display Sikkim's artistic traditions, craftsmanship, and cultural symbols, offering the audience a glimpse into the state's artistic talent and cultural richness.
Hans India
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
PM Modi, HM Shah wish Sikkim on statehood day; praise its beauty, rich culture and sustainable development
New Delhi: On the occasion of Sikkim's Statehood Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, extended his greetings to the people of the state, praising its serene beauty, rich cultural traditions and industrious people. "Warm greetings to the people of Sikkim on their Statehood Day! This year, the occasion is even more special as we mark the 50th anniversary of Sikkim's statehood! Sikkim is associated with serene beauty, rich cultural traditions and industrious people. It has made strides in diverse sectors. May the people of this beautiful state continue to prosper," PM Modi wrote in a post on X. Warm greetings to the people of Sikkim on their Statehood Day! This year, the occasion is even more special as we mark the 50th anniversary of Sikkim's statehood! Sikkim is associated with serene beauty, rich cultural traditions and industrious people. It has made strides in… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2025 Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended his heartfelt wishes to the people of Sikkim. Taking to social media platform X, Shah wrote, "On Sikkim Day, extending my best wishes to sisters and brothers of Sikkim. Cradled in the Himalayas, Sikkim has set benchmarks of excellence in organic agriculture and tourism with the hard work and hospitality of its people. Praying for the state's continued prosperity." Sikkim, India's second smallest state, was granted full statehood on May 16, 1975, and has since emerged as a leader in sustainable development and eco-friendly initiatives. Joining in the celebration, Union Minister and BJP National President J.P. Nadda also conveyed his greetings through a post on X. "My heartfelt greetings to all my brothers and sisters of Sikkim on their Statehood Day. Sikkim is not only gifted with breathtaking scenic beauty but also home to hardworking and dedicated people who are contributing to the nation's progress. May Sikkim continue to script new chapters of success, and may its people be blessed with good health, happiness and prosperity," he wrote. Union Minister Piyush Goyal, also shared his warm wishes. He highlighted Sikkim's achievements in sustainable development and tourism, stating, "Warm greetings to my sisters and brothers from Sikkim on their Statehood Day. Known for its scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant tourism sector, Sikkim has made remarkable strides in sustainable development initiatives over the years. Wishing the people of Sikkim continued progress and prosperity." Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma marked the occasion with a message emphasising the state's environmental and social progress. "To our sisters and brothers in Sikkim, I send my best wishes on the golden jubilee of your Statehood. Nestled amidst lush greenery and affectionate people, the State has positioned itself as a model of sustainable development. Prayers for its continued growth and prosperity," he posted on X. As Sikkim celebrates its 50th year of statehood, leaders across the nation have applauded its path-breaking achievements in sustainability, eco-tourism, and organic farming reaffirming its status as a model state in India's developmental journey.
