GYALSHING: Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), Chief Minister of Sikkim attended the 30th Foundation Day of Akhil Sikkim Khas Chettri Bahun Kalyan Sangh as the Chief Guest at Kyongsa ground, Gyalshing on February 26.
Organized by the Akhil Sikkim Khas Chettri Bahun Kalyan Sangh, the event witnessed an overwhelming turnout of members from the Khas Chettri Bahun community, who gathered from across the state to mark the occasion.
Upon his arrival, the Chief Minister was accorded a resplendent welcome, replete with traditional dance and music, setting a vibrant tone for the celebrations.
Taking the stage, the Chief Minister conveyed his profound appreciation for the warm reception extended to him. Acknowledging the presence of distinguished personalities, committee members, and community representatives, he congratulated the Khas Chettri Bahun community on reaching the milestone of 30 years. He also extended his heartfelt wishes on the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister shared his immense pride in witnessing the Khas community establish a formidable identity. Reflecting on the journey, he noted that it took over two decades for the community to unite and emerge as a visible and influential force. He emphasized that this grand celebration stands as a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering communal harmony and solidarity across Sikkim.
Speaking against the divisive tactics of past regimes, Mr Tamang reiterated his administration’s dedication to uniting all communities under a common vision of Sunaulo, Samriddha ani Samarth Sikkim. He urged the Khas community to strengthen their bonds and work in tandem with other communities to elevate the state to greater heights. Stating that his dream is to forge a unified Sikkimese identity, he affirmed that empowering every community remains his foremost agenda.
Reaffirming his faith in unity as the foundation of a thriving society, the Chief Minister underscored that those attempting to sow discord must recognize the indomitable spirit of the Sikkimese people. He assured that his government stands as a steadfast guardian of harmony, resolute in protecting and nurturing the bonds that bind the diverse communities of Sikkim. Addressing the swirling narratives and baseless accusations circulating in recent times, he dismissed the divisive rhetoric as mere attempts to undermine the state’s unity. He asserted that in today’s era, misinformation holds no ground, and those propagating falsehoods will find no space to thrive.
Reiterating his commitment to eliminating any challenges that threaten the unity of both the Khas community and Sikkim at large, Mr Tamang highlighted that his leadership is centered on inclusive development. He stressed that his administration is dedicated to propelling every community forward, safeguarding Sikkim’s cultural heritage, and ensuring that the rich legacy of harmony endures for generations to come.
In a significant announcement, he reaffirmed the government’s steadfast pursuit of securing Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the 12 left-out communities of Sikkim. A dedicated State High-Level Committee, working under his directive, has been actively engaged in presenting the community’s aspirations to the central government. We are here to safeguard Sikkim, not let it sink, the Chief Minister declared emphatically.
Drawing a distinction between Sikkim and Darjeeling, he pointed out that despite their shared historical ties, their present-day demands and realities differ significantly. He urged the people to remain vigilant against misinformation and reaffirmed that his government’s actions speak louder than rumors, ensuring that peace and communal amity remain at their zenith.
Highlighting his administration’s numerous initiatives for the welfare of the Khas community, he outlined various schemes and programmes, including the celebration of Nar Bahadur Jayanti, Bhasha Manyata Diwas, the Apatan Scheme, the NB Bhandari Fellowship Scheme, and the allocation of prime land in Gangtok for the construction of Khas Bhawan, which has been earmarked for funding in the upcoming budget. He also emphasized the recruitment of Nepali and Sanskrit teachers, the issuance of government notifications in Nepali, grant-in-aid provisions, and the strong representation of Khas community members in the state’s governance, bureaucracy, and administrative machinery.
He attributed unfounded accusations to the insecurities of those who fear the growing camaraderie among Sikkim’s communities. Stressing that it is the collective responsibility of all to uphold the spirit of brotherhood, he declared that any attempts to sow discord will be firmly countered by the unwavering unity of the Sikkimese people.
In his concluding remarks, the Chief Minister made an impassioned call for renewed commitment toward growth, inclusivity, and empowerment, urging every citizen to join in the shared vision of a prosperous future. ‘Torera hoina, hami Sikkim lai jorera agi baraunchau’ — We do not weaken; we strengthen Sikkim and move forward, he affirmed.
A defining moment of the function was the Chief Minister’s historic announcement that, beginning next year, February 26th will be officially recognized as Khas Foundation Day and declared a government holiday.
- IPR Report
