BJP Sikkim hosts awareness meet on Waqf Amendment Act; slams state government for fee hikes

The Sikkim unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organized a special awareness programme at its State Office in Singtam to discuss the recently passed Waqf Amendment Act, 2025. The event was attended by many senior party leaders, office bearers, and members of the Muslim community from across the state. The focus of the programme was to explain the key points of the new law and to highlight the central government's efforts to include and empower all communities, especially those who are often left behind.

Speaking at the programme, BJP Sikkim State President Shri DR Thapa praised the Waqf Amendment Act and said that it would help bring transparency and better management of Waqf properties. He said that the Act would benefit the Muslim community and ensure their rights are protected. Shri Thapa also said that the Modi government’s approach reflects the vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,” which means development for everyone.

Alongside the central issue, Shri Thapa took the opportunity to speak on several local concerns. He strongly criticized the state government for increasing Licence Fees, Shop Rent, Electricity Bills, and Garbage Charges in both urban and rural areas. He said these hikes have made life difficult for the common people of Sikkim. He also pointed out that many people have not yet received their MGNREGA wages, Dairy Incentives, and Pensions, which is adding to their financial troubles.

He urged the state government, especially the Chief Minister, to rethink these hikes and to ensure timely payments to the people. “People are already under a lot of stress. Delays in wages and incentives only make things worse,” Thapa said. “We request the government to act with sensitivity and not add to the burden.”

The event was opened by BJP General Secretary and Programme Convenor Shri Arjun Rai, who explained the key features of the Waqf Amendment Act. He said the Act would modernize the way Waqf properties are looked after and would help the community in the long run. Rai also spoke about the central government’s dedication to treating all communities equally and ensuring no one is left behind in the development journey.

The programme also witnessed a wave of new people joining the party. Several retired government officials, former Panchayat members, and workers from other parties formally joined BJP on the occasion. Among them were Shri Kiran Giri (Retired SI), Shri KN Pradhan (Former AEO-HRDD), Shri Narendra Gurung (Former Panchayat), HB Rai, Adhik Lal Rai, Subash Rai, and GM Rai from Pakyong District. From Namchi District, Jyoti Gurung and several others also joined.