Khas Chettri-Bahun officials felicitated in grand ceremony, marking a milestone in inclusive governance
He further stated that such appointments should inspire the younger generation to participate actively in public service and administration.
LOCAL
The Akhil Sikkim Khas Chettri Bahun Kalyan Sangh on Friday organised a grand felicitation ceremony to honour the newly appointed Advisors, Chairpersons, Additional Political Secretaries (APS), and Officers on Special Duty (OSD) from the Khas Chettri-Bahun community. The event, held in Gangtok, drew large attendance from political leaders, government functionaries, and proud members of the community.
The ceremony, rich in emotion and cultural symbolism, served not only as a moment of individual recognition but as a larger statement of trust, representation, and social inclusion. As the dignitaries took the stage and extended their congratulations, applause and cheers echoed through the venue—reflecting the community’s pride in seeing their members take on critical roles in the state’s governance structure.
Among the notable dignitaries who graced the event were the Honourable Minister for Roads and Bridges, N.B. Dahal; the Honourable Minister for Education, Sports & Youth Affairs, Raju Basnett; Honourable MLA from Namthang-Rateypani constituency and Advisor to the Power Department, Sanjit Kharel; and MLA from Gyalshing-Bermiok constituency, Loknath Sharma.
Each speaker took the opportunity to not only congratulate the appointees but to also reflect on the broader importance of the moment. They hailed the initiative of the Government of Sikkim under the leadership of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang for appointing capable individuals from the Khas Chettri-Bahun community into key administrative positions—emphasising the administration’s inclusive approach toward governance and equitable representation of all communities.
In his keynote address, MLA Loknath Sharma struck a deeply personal and motivational tone. “This is not just a ceremony of recognition; it is a moment of responsibility,” he told the newly appointed officials. “You now represent the aspirations of an entire community. It is your duty to become a bridge between the people and the government—to listen, act, and serve with transparency, compassion, and dedication.”
He further stated that such appointments should inspire the younger generation to participate actively in public service and administration. “You are the face of trust and hope for our community. Let your work speak of honesty, courage, and vision,” he added.
The Ministers, in their respective speeches, echoed the same sentiments. N.B. Dahal highlighted how these appointments were based on merit and capability, and that the government was determined to ensure every community finds space in the decision-making structure of the state. “This is a testament to our Chief Minister’s vision of inclusive and participatory governance,” he said.
Raju Basnett underlined the importance of strengthening social harmony and cultural identity while working in government roles. “Let us continue to promote unity and collective growth. Our state will prosper when every community has a role to play, and today’s appointments are an example of that progressive spirit,” he said.
Sanjit Kharel spoke about the dynamic shift in state governance in recent years. He said that the inclusion of new voices from diverse backgrounds, particularly from communities such as the Khas Chettri-Bahun, marks a new era of representation that resonates with grassroots needs. “Public service must be deeply connected with the people, and I believe these newly appointed officials will live up to that ideal,” he added.