AI is helping, not hurting, says SKM’s Nawang Kalden Pinasa amid public confusion over vehicle fines

Nawang Kalden Pinasa, the Social Media Manager of the Ward Level Committee and Sports Wing General Secretary of Syari Constituency (SKM) addressed rising public frustration over fines reportedly issued by AI-based traffic and motor vehicle monitoring systems in Sikkim. His comments were made during a live interaction on Facebook from a taxi while he was travelling.

Pinasa questioned why some people were calling for the removal of AI systems. “Why should AI be removed? AI has made life easier. People who say AI should go and removed ; they don’t understand its value,” he said. He said that AI systems have brought discipline on the roads, reduced document fraud and helped eliminate traffic jams and random checks.

He said that even when documents are up to date, many vehicle owners still receive messages about fines. However, he clarified, “You don’t have to pay if your documents are correct. Just ignore the message. Go to the office if needed, but don’t panic.”

Pinasa criticized individuals spreading misinformation and misleading the public. “Some people think they are intelligent, but they don’t understand how the system works. They are creating confusion,” he said. He said that the AI system is not the problem, but rather the manipulation or misunderstanding of the system.

He also spoke about the broader economic hardships faced by the people, noting the rising prices of petrol, food, and daily commodities. “Earlier, a taxi ride cost Rs. 10. Now it's Rs. 200. The cost of living has gone up. Students can’t even afford Rs. 250 for daily expenses. That’s the reality,” he said, adding that the public must stay updated with changing times.

Pinasa expressed concern that many people are living with outdated ideas and resisting progress. He urged citizens to use available digital platforms and websites to keep their documents updated and understand the AI-generated messages properly.

He said, “If needed, I’ll talk to the Chief Minister. I’ll speak to the Secretary. If nothing works, I’m ready to lead a strike on the highway. But we must fight with facts, not with confusion.”

Pinasa also criticized people who, in his words, “talk a lot on Facebook but don’t contribute anything meaningful.” Referring to the past political leadership, he mentioned that while the Chamling government lasted 25 years, today’s reality is different and the people must adapt.

He said, “Democracy gives you the right to speak, to vote, to question. But don’t misuse it. Use it to build, not to break.”