Ganesh Rai welcomes ‘Aama Samman Diwas’, but urges government to act beyond announcements

The Citizen Action Party (CAP) has welcomed the state government's recent declaration of ‘Aama Samman Diwas’ or Mother’s Honor Day. CAP President Ganesh Rai said it is a positive step but added that true respect for mothers must go beyond announcements and political functions.

Ganesh Rai said, “We are happy that the government has announced Aama Samman Diwas. It’s a good decision, and we appreciate that the Home Department has officially notified it. But we must not forget that such a day should bring real changes in the lives of mothers across Sikkim.”

Rai said that the government held a meeting to declare the day, but it was attended only by ruling party leaders. “Respecting mothers is not the job of just one party. All sections of society and all political parties must be part of such an important day,” he said.

He expressed hope that from October 10 onwards—the date set for Aama Samman Diwas—no mother in Sikkim will have to shed tears because her son or daughter was harmed. “We hope no mother will cry after seeing her child’s blood, or a wife will cry seeing her husband return home beaten. If the government truly respects mothers, then these situations must stop,” Rai added.

He also raised concerns about rising unemployment and its impact on youth and families. “It’s painful when mothers lose their children to suicide due to joblessness and frustration. Real support means creating jobs and opportunities for young people, not just making announcements,” he said.

Ganesh Rai criticized political intolerance, saying that citizens have the constitutional right to support any party they choose. “If someone doesn’t support the ruling party or its programs, it doesn’t mean they should be beaten or jailed. Mothers should never be forced to see their children suffer for joining the opposition,” he said.

He questioned the intent behind the Aama Samman Diwas declaration. “We fear this may be a political move to stay in power. If the initiative is not followed by real work, people will think it’s just a way to use mothers for political benefit,” Rai said.

The CAP president stressed that respect for mothers must be reflected in daily life, especially for those struggling with poverty and poor living conditions. “No mother should live in a leaking house or in fear. Opposition families should not be left out when it comes to government help,” he said.

“Some children don’t tell their mothers about their pain or health problems because they know their mother cannot afford treatment. That is not the kind of respect we should give our mothers,” Rai said.

He urged the government to take real action. “Please don’t just talk about trusting mothers, trusting youth, or trusting employees for publicity. Make those words meaningful through action,” he said.