Dalai Lama deserves 'Bharat Ratna', says BJP MP Nishikant Dubey
He also spoke about the controversy surrounding voter numbers in Bihar and Jharkhand, which had recently been a political talking point.
LOCAL
BJP MP and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology (2024–25), Dr. Nishikant Dubey, is on a four-day visit to Guwahati, Siliguri and Gangtok. Speaking during his visit on July 10, Dr. Dubey made several important remarks, from praising the progress in Sikkim to expressing strong support for conferring the Bharat Ratna to His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
While interacting with media and officials, Dr. Dubey said, “The Dalai Lama is deeply respected by every Indian. He is a spiritual leader not just for the people of the Himalayas but for the entire world.” He went on to explain his personal connection to Buddhism, saying, “I come from Vikramshila, the village that gave the world Lord Atisha Dipankara, one of the greatest Buddhist scholars. He laid the foundation for the traditions of the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama. For me and my people, it would be a matter of great honour to see the Dalai Lama receive the Bharat Ratna.”
During the tour, Dr. Dubey also shared his thoughts on the development of Sikkim. Calling it “India’s Switzerland,” he praised the state’s natural beauty, peaceful environment, and progressive citizens. “Sikkim is very peaceful. The people here are forward-thinking. Law and order is very good. And with new rail lines from Siliguri, connectivity will become even better. This will bring Sikkim closer to the rest of India, not just in distance, but in progress too.”
Highlighting concerns raised in Parliament and by citizens, Dr. Dubey added, “We felt the need to come here and speak to the people directly. Our committee wants to support Sikkim in every way. We also raised the matter of promoting the Bhutia and Lepcha languages. These are very important for preserving the identity and culture of the region.”
Dr. Dubey said that Doordarshan will begin broadcasting from Sikkim starting next month. “This will help the local voice reach a national audience. It is a great step for communication and cultural exchange, especially in the northeast.”
He also spoke about the controversy surrounding voter numbers in Bihar and Jharkhand, which had recently been a political talking point. Dr. Dubey clarified his stance and pointed out inconsistencies seen during past elections in Jharkhand. “In some assembly seats, voter numbers increased by over 150%. In my area — Santhal Pargana — there were nearly 40 such constituencies. How can someone aged 65 or 75, who didn’t vote in 2010, 2015, or 2020, suddenly become a new voter in 2025?” he asked.
Backing the Election Commission’s role, he said, “Only Indian citizens have the right to vote. The Election Commission is working without bias. Even what Rahul Gandhi ji is saying — the Election Commission is now acting on that too. So I don’t see why there is any problem. There is no controversy in Bihar.”
Dr. Dubey’s tour included meetings with local leaders, public representatives, and officials. His visit, especially in Sikkim was warmly welcomed by citizens. Local residents expressed gratitude for the focus given to language preservation, infrastructure and media outreach.