Citizen Action Party Chief Ganesh Rai slams SKM government at Foundation Day celebration

Citizen Action Party (CAP) chief Ganesh Rai launched a scathing attack on the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government during the party’s third foundation day celebration in Rangpo. Rai criticized the government for alleged corruption, misuse of public funds, and failure to fulfill promises made in their election manifesto.

Speaking at the event, Rai highlighted that Sikkim has been a part of India for 50 years, yet several politicians have prioritized personal gains over public welfare. “Ministers and politicians have been sold and are still being sold, but the Citizen Action Party is not like that,” he asserted, emphasizing his party’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

Rai accused the SKM government of corruption, citing examples even from the COVID-19 pandemic period. “The government ate the people’s money during the pandemic,” he alleged. He also criticized the administration for extravagant spending on events, including hiring outside artists for hefty payments. “They spent ₹40 crore on one singer. Why such wasteful expenditure? Why not develop the state or promote local artists?” he questioned.

The CAP leader claimed that the SKM government is repeating the mistakes of the previous Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) government, which ruled for 25 years. “They are looting people by organizing massive programs. The SKM must apologize to the SDF for replicating its corrupt practices,” Rai added.

He also took a dig at the government for creating unnecessary positions like the Cabinet Secretary post, pointing to the reemployment of officials. “Extending tenure and reemploying officers blocks opportunities for new talent. Officers must voluntarily vacate their posts and retire,” he urged, warning that CAP would seek legal recourse if these practices continue.

Rai also criticized the SKM’s unfulfilled promises, particularly the waiver of electricity bills. “They promised to waive bills, but many villages still lack electricity. Over one lakh people are being billed without receiving power. Where is the justice?” he asked.

On the issue of Panchayati Raj, Rai said the SKM has failed to depoliticize the system, despite their promises. “They conducted Panchayat elections but only used it for corruption. They’ve merely replaced SDF’s leadership with their own without bringing any meaningful change,” he said.

The CAP leader also alleged misuse of government resources, including official vehicles being used by family members of government officials. “The Chief Minister’s wife and other family members regularly use government vehicles. This is how they are running the administration,” he said.

Ganesh Rai said that CAP is committed to rooting out corruption and ensuring that public resources are used responsibly. He called on the people of Sikkim to support his party’s vision for a transparent and accountable government.