Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has reiterated his government’s commitment to securing Scheduled Tribe (ST) recognition for 12 left-out Sikkimese communities, emphasizing its importance for equity and inclusivity. Addressing the inaugural meeting of the Sikkim State High-Level Committee, CM Tamang stressed the urgency of resolving this long-standing issue as the state prepares to celebrate its 50th year of statehood in 2025.
Expressing gratitude to the committee led by Chairman B.V. Sharma and Vice Chairman Mahendra P. Lama, Tamang acknowledged the excluded communities’ contributions to Sikkim’s cultural and social heritage. “These communities have been integral to our society, yet they have been left out of the ST list since 1979. This injustice must be corrected,” he said.
The state government has actively championed this cause, passing a resolution in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly in January 2021 and engaging with central leaders, including the Prime Minister and Home Minister. “We have received positive signals from the Centre, and we are confident this rightful recognition will soon be achieved,” Tamang added.
The High-Level Committee has been tasked with compiling a comprehensive ethnographical report and actionable recommendations within three months. The government has assured full support for the committee’s work.
“As we near this historic milestone of our statehood, it is our collective duty to ensure no community is left behind,” Tamang stated, urging all stakeholders to collaborate in achieving this critical goal.
