Citizen Action Party slams SKM government over misgovernance, alleges controversial appointment of VB Pathak

The Citizen Action Party (CAP) launched a scathing attack on the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government during a press conference held today. CAP spokesperson Albert Gurung criticized the government for alleged favoritism, controversial appointments, and neglect of public welfare, comparing their struggle to the battles in the Ramayana.

"We will fight against the 32-faced SKM government with resolve," Gurung said.

The CAP strongly opposed the appointment of retired Chief Secretary VB Pathak as Chief Administrator cum Cabinet Secretary, a position unprecedented in India. Gurung pointed out that Pathak’s initial appointment as Chief Secretary in 2022 was already contentious, as senior Sikkim cadre IAS officers were bypassed. Despite SKM’s stated opposition to tenure extensions, Pathak’s term was extended by three months before being elevated to his current role.

“This favoritism by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang is illegal and undermines the integrity of the state administration,” said Gurung, adding that CAP has written to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) to address the issue. Gurung further alleged that under Pathak’s tenure, administrative errors, such as issuing transfer orders to deceased individuals, have plagued the state.

CAP also lambasted the SKM government for its extravagant plans to invite British pop star Ed Sheeran for the state’s 50th anniversary celebrations. The party questioned the rationale behind spending Rs 40 crore for a two-hour event.

“This money could be used to pay salaries to Sikkim’s unemployed youth or support local initiatives. Instead, the government is prioritizing entertainment over essential development,” said Gurung.

Highlighting the state’s education crisis, CAP pointed to alarmingly low pass rates in Sikkim’s board exams last year: 34% for Class 10 and 23% for Class 12. Gurung blamed the government’s focus on frequent fairs and melas with loud sound systems disrupting students’ studies.

“The government must issue notifications to regulate sound levels and prioritize improving the state’s education system,” he demanded.