SKM slams Citizen Action Party over ‘parallel police’ proposal, calls it dangerous and anti-national

The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) lashed out at the Citizen Action Party (CAP) for its recent proposal to create a "Citizen Security Force" that, according to CAP’s own letter, would function on par with the Sikkim Police. The SKM has condemned the idea outright, calling it unconstitutional, dangerous, and a direct threat to the peace and security of the state and the country.

Speaking on behalf of the ruling party, SKM spokesperson Kavita Sapkota said, “CAP party is not above the country, law, and security—this is foolish and anti-national.” She said that the idea of forming a private force to mirror the duties of the state police was nothing short of a "naked drama" meant for publicity. The SKM has made it clear that such proposals are not only illegal but show a disregard for democratic values and the rule of law.

According to SKM, the responsibilities and powers of the police are clearly defined by the Police Act of 1861. The Constitution of India places the functioning of police under the State List, making it clear that only the state government has the authority to manage and control policing. The duties of the police include protecting lives and property, maintaining law and order, investigating crimes, and executing court directives. No private group can legally take over or imitate these responsibilities.

The SKM warned that the creation of a force parallel to the police could destabilize public order and threaten the safety of ordinary citizens. “Any private organization claiming to work on par with the Sikkim Police is attempting to function outside the legal framework, which cannot be allowed under any circumstances,” the party stated.

The party also criticized CAP for using such announcements for attention rather than for the welfare of the people. “Instead of making a positive contribution, the Citizen Action Party has engaged in irrational declarations,” said Sapkota. She added that the Sikkim Police is the only constitutionally recognized force tasked with ensuring safety and peace in the state, and citizens should have full faith in it.

The SKM told all political parties that national interest, public security, and constitutional values must come before party politics. “We strongly believe in upholding the Constitution and respecting the institutions that safeguard democracy and law in our country. Any attempt to form parallel forces is a dangerous step toward chaos and must be rejected outright,” the statement read.