Sikkim Democratic Front welcomes PM Modi’s virtual inauguration, demands action on long-standing public issues

The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) issued a detailed response following the cancellation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s physical visit to Sikkim due to adverse weather conditions. While expressing regret over the cancellation, the party warmly welcomed the Prime Minister’s virtual inauguration of several key development projects in the state and reiterated urgent demands on unresolved public issues.

The SDF acknowledged the importance of the PM’s safety and extended best wishes for his successful engagements in West Bengal and Bihar. They also welcomed his promise to visit Sikkim soon, particularly to commemorate the historic 50th anniversary of Sikkim’s statehood.

Highlighting the projects inaugurated virtually by PM Modi, the SDF took pride in pointing out that many of these initiatives—such as the 500-bedded District Hospital at Namchi, the passenger ropeway from Pelling to Sangacholing Monastery, and the Bhaleydunga Skywalk—were conceived and planned during the previous SDF government led by Shri Pawan Kumar Chamling. These projects are seen as visionary efforts aimed at boosting healthcare, tourism, and economic opportunities across the state.

The party also applauded the Prime Minister’s recognition of Sikkim’s pioneering organic farming mission, which was once mocked by the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM). The SDF recalled how SKM had ridiculed the cultivation of Dalley Khorsani (cherry pepper), a crop now gaining international export attention and serving as a vital source of livelihood for many farmers. “The seed that was mocked has now borne the fruit of success,” the SDF noted.

While welcoming the acknowledgement of improved connectivity with over 400 km of national highways and rural roads, including major projects like Atal Setu and Bagdogra-Gangtok Expressway, the SDF expressed serious concern over the continued neglect of critical issues that remain unaddressed by the current government. These include seat reservation for the Limbu and Tamang communities, tribal status for other left-out groups, facilitation of the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa’s return to Rumtek Monastery, implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP), and a reaffirmation of Article 371F protecting Sikkim’s special constitutional status.

The party questioned whether the SKM-led government has truly represented the aspirations of the Sikkimese people in discussions with the Centre, noting that these issues had been raised by the previous Chief Minister Pawan Chamling during his visits to the Prime Minister in 2016 and 2018 but remain unresolved.

The SDF criticized the current government for focusing more on optics, such as overnight beautification of Gangtok for the PM’s visit, while regions like North Sikkim continue to face infrastructure and emergency medical challenges despite available GLOF recovery funds. The party called for responsible leadership that prioritizes genuine development over showmanship.

The SDF urged the Central Government and the SKM-led state administration to go beyond ceremonial gestures and take meaningful steps to address longstanding public grievances and ensure equitable growth for all communities.