Opposition are enemies of society, says CM Tamang at Namsoong Festival

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang speaking at the Namsoong Festival in Upper Dzongu, criticized opposition parties for opposing cultural celebrations and labeled them as "enemies of society." He said that government is committed to preserving and promoting the cultural traditions of all communities since the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) took office on May 27, 2019.

"The SKM government has given importance to every community and religion, ensuring that all cultural traditions and festivals are celebrated without hindrance. This was not the case during the 25-year rule of the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), which restricted community celebrations," Tamang said. He said that the SKM government has taken community festivals to an international level while supporting grassroots cultural practices.

Addressing criticism from opposition parties, the Chief Minister said, "Some claim that supporting community festivals is mere entertainment. Should we stop the Lepcha, Bhutia, and Limbu communities from celebrating their traditions? Is that what the opposition wants? As Chief Minister, I will always stand by the people and their cultural heritage."

Tamang detailed his government's achievements in various sectors, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. "We managed the crisis efficiently, even transferring money online to support Sikkim residents stranded outside the state. Compared to other states, Sikkim fared much better during this challenging time due to our proactive management," he said.

The Chief Minister also spoke on the advancements made in healthcare and education. "In the last 25 years, no oxygen plants were installed in district hospitals. The previous government prioritized personal gain, but we have equipped all district hospitals with oxygen plants. Similarly, we regularized teachers' jobs, a step never taken before, and acquired 18 acres for the upcoming Kanchenjunga State University, which will be operational within a year."

Tamang credited the SKM government for upgrading roads, boosting tourism and ensuring local artists gain opportunities through events like the Namsoong Festival and Makar Sankranti celebrations. "Local artists are now getting platforms to showcase their talent, thanks to the sponsorship model we introduced. Artists like Kailash Kher and Pawandeep Rajan have performed in Sikkim without government expenditure, as sponsors have funded these events," he said.

He criticized opposition parties for opposing such initiatives, labeling them as "enemies of society." Tamang further highlighted the SKM's work in rural sports development and infrastructure improvements and said that payments for previously incomplete projects have been cleared under his leadership.

"The people have given us their mandate. We will continue to support every community and work tirelessly for the progress of Sikkim," he said.