I stand with the poor, but not by breaking the law: Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang

“I always say this — even if any officials call me, I say that I am on the side of the poor. I stand with the poor. Every work for the poor must be done. Whatever way it takes for the poor, it should be done. But I do not say to break the law. I don’t say to break the law and do it,” said Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang.

The Chief Minister made this remark while addressing a large gathering at the 7th Sarathi Samman Diwas in Sikkim, an annual event held to recognise the contributions of the state’s driving community. Tamang’s statement reaffirmed his government’s commitment to social justice, particularly for economically disadvantaged groups, while upholding the rule of law.

During the same event, CM Tamang announced a significant welfare initiative — a Rs 5 lakh medical insurance scheme exclusively for licensed commercial taxi drivers in the state. The scheme, which will initially cover 5,000 drivers, is aimed at providing financial protection during hospitalization due to illness or accidents. Plans are already underway to expand the scheme in future phases.

“This initiative is meant to support those who support the movement of people every day — our drivers,” Tamang said. “Whether it’s a medical emergency due to illness or an accident on the road, this scheme will provide the necessary financial support for treatment.”