SDF hits back at SKM over caste census, governance failures and political misuse of social organisations

The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) on June 26 launched a scathing attack on the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM), accusing the party of politicising the sensitive issue of caste census and misusing social organisations for political mileage. SDF leaders also questioned the SKM government’s commitment to development and democratic values.

SDF spokesperson Krishna Kharel said the issue of caste census was being wrongly portrayed as a political ploy when, in fact, it concerns the identity and historical recognition of communities. “This should be seen from a social and community lens, not political. Every caste’s culture, language, and identity deserve protection under the Constitution,” Kharel stated.

Kharel strongly objected to the recent statements issued by the Khas Chettri-Bahun Kalyan Sangh, which he alleged sounded exactly like SKM’s political stand. “This is a serious concern. Such social organisations should focus on welfare, not act as political wings,” he said, warning that further politicisation could erode trust and representation in the upcoming census.

He alleged that members of the Chettri-Bahun community have suffered discrimination and even physical assaults, citing a recent incident in Geyzing where a youth named Keshav Sahab was allegedly beaten up. “No statement came from the authorities. Is it because he belonged to our community?” he questioned.

Kharel cautioned that the community’s historical categorisation was being narrowed down unjustly, adding, “We are General Category under Sikkim Subject records, but our tribal potential is ignored. Different terms like ‘Khas’, ‘Chettri’, and ‘Bahun’ are causing confusion.”

Turning up the heat on SKM, SDF spokesperson Yojna Rai slammed the government for using public funds for political shows. “The Revolutionary Day celebrations on June 22 and events like Women’s Day were just political events masked as welfare programmes. Crores were spent without delivering real change,” she said.

Rai criticised the ruling party for failing to provide transparency or show any developmental roadmap. “SKM has disrespected educated women leaders and continued patriarchal practices. They talk about women empowerment but act otherwise,” she added.

She urged the people of Sikkim to look beyond grand speeches and focus on real work and values. “We stand for dignity, equality, and real democracy. SDF’s voice is for the people, not for show,” Rai affirmed.

Rikzing Norbu Bhutia, another spokesperson of SDF, said that it was under the leadership of former Chief Minister Pawan Chamling that Sikkim saw real progress. “Chamling Sahib gave us roads, schools, hospitals, tourism and industries. He laid the foundation for modern Sikkim,” Bhutia declared.

Bhutia criticised the SKM government’s “childish blame-game” and said their actions were degrading Sikkim’s achievements. “Even our organic farming certification has been cancelled, which is a national embarrassment. People are paying taxes even on basic vegetables like nettle and ferns,” he said.

He also expressed concern over the government's handling of rising suicide cases. “Insensitive remarks have replaced compassion. That is not how leaders behave,” he said.

Bhutia addressed SKM spokesperson Jacob Khaling, wishing him on his birthday but demanding a dignified response to SDF’s statements. “Personal attacks and empty promises are not leadership,” he said. “The people of Sikkim deserve honesty and delivery—not hollow dreams.”