Citizen Action Party slams law and order in Sikkim, warns of rising insecurity

Tensions continue to rise in Sikkim’s political landscape as members of the Citizen Action Party-Sikkim (CAP) led by party president Ganesh Rai reached the Tashiling Secretariat today, only to be denied entry despite a scheduled appointment with the Chief Secretary. The party, which had come to submit a memorandum regarding rising law and order concerns and alleged police inaction, expressed strong discontent over the state administration's handling of recent incidents.

Ganesh Rai voiced concern over an incident that took place on July 17, when members of the youth wing of the Srijanshil Action Party submitted a petition at the residence department about pension and political rights. An FIR was reportedly filed against them, and several youth members, including Deyus Gurung, were arrested the same day. Rai questioned the legitimacy of the FIR and accused the police of acting on political instructions.

“We had an appointment today at 10:30 AM. We arrived at the Secretariat at 10:50 AM but were not allowed in. We were told we must reapply. This is not just procedural delay—it is systematic exclusion,” Rai said during his address to the media. “This is not just our issue. It concerns the rights and safety of every citizen in Sikkim.”

Rai described the current situation as deeply concerning, alleging that the police have failed to control public safety and are being influenced by external forces. He criticized the role of the Director General of Police, Asha Rai, stating that despite high hopes, lawlessness continues to rise. “Masked individuals are attacking people in Gangtok in broad daylight. If this is the state of law and order, what hope do common citizens have?” he asked.

CAP has submitted a detailed memorandum to the Chief Secretary highlighting multiple instances of political violence and threats in 2025 alone. According to Rai, these include violent assaults on opposition workers and increased fear among opposition party families.

“We are a legally recognized political party,” said Rai. “We believe in peaceful protest and democratic means. But if the government fails to provide safety, we will be forced to create a ‘Public Security Force’ to protect our people. We will also escalate this matter to the Ministry of Home Affairs.”

The party made it clear that they are not looking for confrontation but demand accountability. “We respect the police, and we know there are good officers. But they must act fairly. If they fail to protect the citizens because of political pressure, then what message are we sending about Sikkim?” asked Kishore Kumar Chettri, another CAP member who spoke at the Secretariat.

Rai said their movement will not stop until justice is served. “We are not here to spread propaganda. We are here to keep democracy alive. This campaign will continue. We will not back down.”

He said, “In a democracy, the people are supreme. The Constitution gives us the right to live without fear. We will continue to fight for that.”