Sonam Sherpa urges Sikkimese to support Buddhist rally in Bodhgaya on May 12
He further informed that on the day after the rally, another demonstration will be held against the Buddhist Tribes Act of 1949, also referred to as the BT Act 1949.
LOCAL
Sonam Sherpa, a member of the Sikkimey Nagarik Samaj and representative of the Sikkim Chapter of the All India Buddhist Forum, has called on the people of Sikkim to support an upcoming Buddhist rally in Bodhgaya on May 12. Speaking during his journey to Bihar, Sherpa said that the rally will be one of the biggest gatherings of Buddhists from around the world and asked for unity and prayers from everyone in the state.
"We are on our way to Bodhgaya from Sikkim as part of the All India Buddhist Forum," Sherpa said. "The Sikkim chapter is also travelling along. Some are on the bus, some are in cars. We are going there with a message and a purpose."
According to Sherpa, the rally on May 12 will be peaceful and spiritual, but it also carries a strong message about the rights and identity of Buddhists in India. He stressed that this gathering is not just a religious event, but also a movement to raise awareness about the concerns of the Buddhist community.
"We have already sent a letter to the Sikkim government," Sherpa said. "We submitted a memorandum to the Governor and Sangalamma. Letters were also sent to the Minister and MLA. We have asked for support from all levels."
He also mentioned that they believe Sikkim should be recognised as a Buddhist state due to its long spiritual and cultural history with Buddhism. "We hope the people and the government of Sikkim will support us. We are proud Buddhists and we are asking for unity from everyone."
Sherpa made an appeal to the people of Sikkim to join hands with the Sikkim Chapter of the All India Buddhist Forum and stand in solidarity. "Please support us on the 12th. This rally is for all of us. It is for our identity, our beliefs, and our future," he said.
He further informed that on the day after the rally, another demonstration will be held against the Buddhist Tribes Act of 1949, also referred to as the BT Act 1949. Sherpa said that this law has been a matter of concern for many in the Buddhist community and they are demanding fair treatment and recognition of their rights.
"We are not asking for anything extra. We are only asking for our rights," he said. "This rally is not just about religion. It is also about justice and equality."
Sherpa said, "We ask our brothers and sisters in Sikkim to pray for us. We are going there to speak on behalf of all Buddhists. Please keep us in your thoughts."