Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) flays Opposition parties for politics over Earthquake

Gangtok: Hardly a week has passed since the devastating earthquake of September 18, resulting in an unprecedented crisis for Sikkim and its people, that the opposition parties aspiring to come to power have started their habitual game of misleading the people with misinformation to add to the agony of the crisis-stricken people. Such a “mean and inhuman” act of the opportunist politicians is strongly condemned by the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), says a press release on September 25 by SDF general secretary (publicity) Mr. T. N. Sharma.

The release cites specific instances of the “misinformation campaign” resorted to by the opposition parties as to the cause of the earthquake.

Firstly, the opposition leaders are saying that the hydel power projects caused the 9/18 earthquake, whereas, geo-scientists have unanimously attributed the earthquake to tectonic plate movement far below the crust of the earth which released huge energy that found its way up through faults and fractures already demarcated as earthquake zone 4 in north-west Sikkim.

Secondly, to compound the panic among the people, fillers are being given about “another earthquake soon”. But, according to experienced geologists a recurrence of the earthquake in the near future is unlikely because, they point out, huge quantum of sub-surface energy is already released in 9/18 shock wave and aftershocks that followed.

The release also mentions that road connectivity with Lachen-Lachung being snapped due to massive landslides, problems are being faced by Army and other agencies engaged in rescue and relief operations, but in disregard to this fact, malicious propaganda is floated to foment disaffection among the people in distress

Sikkim Public Order Bill termed a “black bill” by Opposition

Gangtok Aug. 11: The Sikkim chief minister today tabled a bill in the Assembly for a special law to address “social vices and offences” that might cause disturbances to public order.

The bill seeks to ban processions, hunger strikes, squatting, sloganeering and waving black flags or other forms of agitation that might “promote enmity or hatred between sections of the society”on the “grounds of religion, race or caste”. Such actions will be deemed disturbances to public order, the bill states.

The Sikkim Prevention and Control of Disturbance of Public Order Bill has been termed a “black bill” by Opposition parties, which have no representation in the Assembly where all 32 seats are held by Sikkim Democratic Front.

Legal experts described the proposed state law “unconstitutional” and said it would be scrapped if taken to court.

“The state government after due deliberations felt that there is a need to deal with such types of offences affecting public order. This can only be effectively addressed by having an appropriate law/rule in place,” chief minister Pawan Chamling said while introducing the bill in the House. Sources in the government denied that there had been any immediate provocation to put the law in place.

An entire gamut of offences has been listed in the bill that will be put to vote on August 26. From public nuisance, drunken behaviour, drug abuse and resorting to child labour, the proposed law also seeks to ban persons below 18 years from entering bars and discos.

Under the provisions of the bill, a special court will be set up with the concurrence of the Chief Justice of the Sikkim High Court by a notification by the state government. Each of the four districts of the state will have a special court. The bill also provides for punishment for offenders found guilty under the proposed law: a minimum imprisonment of five years with a fine not less than Rs 50,000. All offences under this law shall be considered cognisable and non-bailable.

“The provisions proposed in the bill are in total violation of the democratic values and norms. This is a black law that seeks to suppress the voice of the people and is against fundamental rights,” said Kumga Nima Lepcha, the acting president of the Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee.

The state BJP president, Padam Chhetri, said the bill was totally “undemocratic”. “Such laws are not implemented in a democracy. All the opposition parties should be united against this law. Just because there is no Opposition in the Assembly does not mean that such Taliban-like rules are to be passed as a law. By this law any dissenting voice will be crushed,” said Chhetri.

In recent times, the most vociferous protest in the state capital was by the Affected Citizens of Teesta (ACT) against the construction of mega-hydel projects in Lepcha reserve in Dzongu in North Sikkim. “The ban on agitation might be interpreted in any way. ACT activists Dawa Lepcha and Tenzing Gyatso Lepcha, who held hunger strikes for 53 days and 96 days in 2007 and 2008 respectively in Gangtok, had caused some embarrassment to the Chamling government that is into its fourth term now,” a political observer said.

Asked to comment on the bill, a former judge of Calcutta High Court, Bhagabati Prasad Banerjee, said: “Even though a portion of the laws related to public order has been placed on the state list and the state has the power to enact legislation on them, the bill placed by the Sikkim government will not be considered as valid if challenged in court.”

The judge said the state governments could enact laws on minor offences that affect public order like littering and committing nuisance. “But as far as public disorders like promoting enmity or hatred or disaffection among different communities are concerned, there are strong central laws for it. On these issues, a state government cannot enact any law,” Banerjee told The Telegraph in Calcutta.

Mr. Nar Bahadur Bhandari, President Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee welcomes Gorkhaland Pact

Gangtok 19th July: President Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee (SPCC) Mr. Nar Bahadur Bhandari rejected the proposal of the Chief Minister Pawan Chamling to name Sikkim Government College, Tadong as Nar Bahadur Bhandari College. It was proposed by the CM during his village to village tour.

Speaking with media in a meeting held at the party head office at Development Area Mr. Bhandari

informed that CM Pawan Chamling had also proposed to name Soreng road after him but it was also turned down and he had said that he is not fit for it. Mr. Bhandari further said that the ongoing tour of the CM is a total failure and a fruitless exercise as many people in the visited area are unable to meet the CM and place their grievances before him.

Adding more Mr. Bhandari stated that the people are fed up with Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) government as SDF led Mr. Bhandari further alleged that due to Panchayats SDF government fails in proper implementation of the central government scheme in the state as the people are not given the chance to select their Panchayat. Panchayat in state are selected by the government and party and due to which the Panchayat are working in favor of government instead of serving the public and due to this reason the public in the state are not satisfied with the activities of the Panchayats. Public have the right to elect their Panchayat in a democracy but ruling government do not follow democratic principles in the right earnest added Mr. Bhandari.

Addressing the Sikkim University issue Mr. Bhandari said that CM Chamling speaks about the quality education in the state during every public meet but he fails in providing land to Sikkim University and in addition CM Chamling is also encouraging the student to speak against the Vice Chancellor of Sikkim University who holds a respectable post. Mr. Bhandari informing more said that if the ruling government fails in providing land to Sikkim University within this year then the fund allotted for the construction of the university by UGC will return back so its high time that CM Chamling has to take initiative and handover the acquired land to SU.

Adding more Mr. Bhandari stated that CM Chamling is talking about providing quality education in the state but there are numerous schools in the state facing the crisis of Mathematics teachers along with uniform and book.

Speaking over the rising unemployment problems in state Mr. Bhandari said that the SDF led government lacks employment generation programme and due to which the unemployment problems is increasing in the state currently.

Furthermore Mr. Bhandari congratulated UPA Chairperson Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, Union Home Minister Mr. P Chidambaram, Chief Minister of West Bengal Ms. Mamta Banarjee and president of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) Mr. Bimal Gurung for solving the long pending problem of Gorkhaland on 18th of July 2011.

Informing further Mr. Bhandari said that GJM can demand Gorkhaland state in future on the base of Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) as well.

During the programme about 32 SDF members from Namthang and Yangthang joined Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee and Mr. Bhandari welcomed them by offering khadas.

government is unable to keep its promises made to the people of Sikkim

Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) party takes on Prof. Lama on Sikkim University

Gangtok, July 11: The establishment of Sikkim University in the state is the need for the development of state as a whole and the future generation and the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) party welcomes every statement made by
the opposition in a positive way, were the opening words of General Secretary (SDF) Mr. TN Sharma in a conference held here in capital today. Whereas MP Lok Sabha Mr. PD Rai in his address said that the final phase of acquisition of land for SU is in its way which in itself is a major achievement but it does not help the matters when the SU VC visits the site and tries to coerce the public which he did on 30th June 2010 which is not at all the VC’s look out. Adding more Mr. Rai said that all the matters related to SU when made political does not solve the problem what it has become today and Mr. Rai even thanked the political parties and politically motivated outfits who have dropped their hats in the ring too. Stating more Mr. Rai informed that many of the statements of such people are recorded in a few newspapers is malicious and the SDF party condemns them outright.

The opposing people have proved their commitment to an anti-people agenda, their statement are proof enough of the fact that they have no love for the younger generation and will go to any length to oppose the pro people stance of SDF party added Mr. Rai. Informing more Mr. Rai added that SDF party and its government never wanted to make SU land acquisition an issue but when the VC made the quasi political moves then it became mandatory for us to bring the issues on the ground to the people as after being forced numerous times by the VC act the party had to stand. Mr. Rai further placed queries like what kind of actions have been taken by the university to upgrade the facilities as well as the teaching capability of the colleges, professors and subject content enhancements. Furthermore Mr. Rai said that all this queries are important indicators of the commitments made by the university to provide solid support to the colleges operating in state to enable the children with better quality education and skill sets.SDF Spokesperson Mr. Bhim Dahal in his address said that SDF party and its led government want the construction of SU be completed soon but requests for change in Prof. Lamas behavior towards the Sikkimese people and the state along with a suggestion that he should not address the media often and not to oppose the state governments initiative.

Furthermore Mr. Dahal added that Sikkim state has the potential to become a educational hub and every efforts from the government is made to achieve the same too. The disconnection of Prof. Lama from the people of Sikkim or the government has made the acquisition of land along with the whole process of setting up of the university a tough job but if connected every thing will be easier and smooth added Mr. Dahal.

Adding more Mr. Sharma stated that the allocation of land to SU and the resettlement of the donor’s are being carried out by the State Government but the acquisition of land, allocation has become a major
issue today. SU is established for the people of Sikkim and the generation next but the way SU is operating or functioning under Vice Chancellor (VC) Professor Mahindra P Lama is not at all favoring, benefitting the larger interest of the Sikkimese people in state in context to employment opportunity or academically. Since the inception of SDF party and its government that is since 1994 the establishment of SU was given the highest priority by the visionary Chief Minister also the president of SDF party, Dr Pawan Chamling and due to his determination and approach to the central government SU was granted added Mr. Sharma. Furthermore Mr. Sharma informed that during that time only 50% of the states across the nation had university and upon that if we look as per the population the establishment of SU was never possible, the CM’s plea for establishing SU after holing numerous meet came into existence. Where as the SU, VC Prof. Lama today is unable to meet up to the hopes and aspiration of the Sikkimese people at all informed Mr. Sharma. Mr. Sharma stating more said that acquisition of land is a sensitive issue across the nation today and in Sikkim a major one due to the existence of old laws but the instance of Prof. Lama that was initiated on 30th June 2010 when he along with his group visited the site and threatened the inhabitants the acquisition process was hampered totally. Reacting to the behaviour the local inhabitants of the land acquired site at Yangyang even conducted a press meet and opposed Dr. Lama’s act.Addressing upon the employment opportunity provided to locals Mr. Sharma said that there are 92 professors currently educating the students in SU but of that only one is local whereas in regards to students admitted stated that there are a total of 225 students availing their Post Graduation course from SU where only 21 students are locals. The SU is started to facilitated the children’s of state with best of education along with quality but the process catered in the university for local students to avail admission is tough and due to which the students are moving out to other states for studies which is totally against the concept the SDF party or the Government had dreamed off.Adding more Mr. Sharma stated that the state government started a college at West Sikkim which was not availed with affiliation from SU which the SDF led government opposes and in context to admission the entrance test for the candidates of Sikkim are set where as 5%
reservation is met for other state candidates which is totally injustice and the people of Sikkim along with the government criticizes. All such policies, criteria adopted by the VC, SU along with the support of the opposition to the VC is not acceptable to the SDF party and the government.The conference was also attended by SDF Publicity Secretary Mr. Amber Rai.

(SikkimMail)

Sikkim Democratic Front ’s education barb at VC Prof. Lama

 VC Mahendra P. Lama

GANGTOK: The ruling Sikkim Democratic Front today accused the Sikkim University vice-chancellor of being insensitive to the development of education in the state.

SDF spokespersons P.D. Rai and Bhim Dahal told reporters that VC Mahendra P. Lama was more interested in his “political agenda” and “global tours” than spending quality time with the university.

The SDF salvo comes after Lama’s repeated statements on the delay in handing over 250 acres of land at Yangyang in South Sikkim to the SU to develop its campus.

“The university was established through the tireless efforts of our government which also made strong recommendations to get Lama as its first VC. However, his statements on the Yangyang land and his refusal to grant affiliation to the Geyzing degree college in the West district are unacceptable,” said Rai.

After failing to get the approval from the SU, the government got the college affiliated to the private Vinayaka Mission’s Sikkim University. The degree college was inaugurated by chief minister Pawan Chamling on June 28.

Rai said the SU had denied affiliation to the college when 1,300 students passed the Class XII board exams in West Sikkim.

“Where should we then take our students? We appealed for affiliation from the Vinayaka Mission’s Sikkim University. This year, 225 students were admitted to the university and only 21 of them are from Sikkim. It is clear that the VC is against the state’s interests.”

Touching upon delay in the land transfer, Dahal said: “The families that have to vacate the land proposed for the campus are demanding rehabilitation and will not move till then. We are not stalling the transfer, but we have to rehabilitate the evictees first.”

Lama said the SU had only stated facts concerning the delay in land transfer and the affiliation issues.

“We had received four letters from the government, asking us to take possession of the land. Each time we found that the land had not been vacated. We have paid the state government Rs 15 crore. The delay in setting up the campus will result in the non-utilisation of UGC funds. We denied affiliation to the Geyzing college as it did not follow the norms laid out by the UGC. We had informed the government about this,” Lama said.

Asked about his “foreign trips”, the VC said: “Whenever I travel to Delhi or abroad, I promote the university and the state free of cost. These questions are out of the purview of those asking them.”

(thetelegraph)

SDF party Meet For Remembering Sampoorna Kranti Diwas

Gangtok, June 22: President of the Sikkim Democratic Front and Chief Minister, Dr. Pawan Chamling has said, he would be very happy if all the dissident members of SDF party leave the organisation.” MLAs and ministers run the government, panchayats run the local government and party members should run the party. There should not be any mix up as to who is what.“If the party is to be stronger than all party workers should raise their free opinion istead of sitting at fence,” Chief Minister said in his address at Sampurna Kranti Diwas programme held by SDF at its Indira By Pass headquarter yesterday.

On the occasion, the SDF chief announced two prominent Congress member's names who were inducted in party and said “they are the ultimate authority to run the party, maintaining discipline and in adherence to policies of the party”.

“Party should be run by whole timers,” he said, adding, “Those party members who are engaged in their own business should not aspire to go up in the top echelons of the party.” Reiterating that he is very keen for the development of the state and productivity of skilled manpower, the Chief Minister said, “youths below 21 would be banned to purchase liquor or cigarette from shops across Sikkim soon.”
The Party meet also observed one minute silence in memory of one of founding member Kul Bahadur Rai who is no more.
Kranti Diwas is observed by the SDF party every year on 22nd June - the day on which Sikkim witnessed a mass upsurge of the people against the 14 year old Bhandari government demanding the restoration of democracy. The successful movement was led by SDF founder president Pawan Chamling. 

CIPLA UNIT TO MEET ALL DEMANDS OF LABOURS IN SIKKIM

GANGTOK 7th June:A meeting was held at Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) Party officehere at Indira Bye pass between the All Sikkim Democratic Labour Front(ASDLF) and the Management of CIPLA Company on 7th June. During the meeting Human Resource Officer Mr. Anil Singh and Ms. Tshong Lhamu Bhutiaparticipated from Company whereas the Vice President ASDLF Mr. B.MRamudamu along with the Convenor Mr. Krishna Kharel and Vice Convenor Mr. MB limbu from the labor front.During the meeting labor front decided to withdraw their indefinite hunger strike which was scheduled to begin from 10th June in front of CIPLA Company’s gate after the company agreed to fulfill all the demands put forward by the labor front.

Mr. Anil Singh in his address informed that they are currently facingthe man power crisis in the company and due to shortage of man power they have made a rule to work in rotation basis by using the same available

labor.

Mr. Singh adding further informed that regarding the shortage of labor company has already submitted a letter to Block Development Officer of Duga and further added that the company even holds plans in providing training for 2 years on skill development and through training they want to produce trained man power as training is necessary in mass production. Furthermore Mr. Singh stated that Company will send labors for training but on seniority basis and will also pay a salary of Rs. 5,400/- per month during training period and after completion of the training they will even increase the salary too. Mr. Singh further added that the company has planned to regularize the workers working presently but only after the workers are trained and skilled.Like wise on behalf of the labor front Mr. BM Ramudamu demanded of eradication of the contractor system in respect to labors in company along with implementation of EPF system and   regularization of workers on seniority basis. Furthermore Mr. Ramudamu also demanded the representatives of CIPLA Company to submit the list of name of Medicine prepared to labor front as soon as possible. If any labour does not maintain discipline during the working schedule then company must inform labor front before taking any action against the labor added Mr. Ramudamu. Mr. Ramudamu concluded by stating that they will be visiting CIPLA Company soon for finding the problems existing amongst the labours.

(sikkimmail)

A PICTORIAL TRIBUTE TO SIKKIM CM PAWAN CHAMLING ON 17th SDF GOVT. ANNIVERSARY

A TRIBUTE TO PAWAN CHAMLING ON 17th SDF GOVT. FORMATION DAY

Message of Chief Minister Dr. Pawan Chamling on 17th Anniversary of SDF Government

My dear fellow citizens,

At the outset let me convey my sincere and heartfelt greetings to all of you on the 17th Anniversary of the formation of our Government. The overwhelming mandate and the confidence reposed on us by you make us strive and work hard to fulfil the aspirations and hope of every single Sikkimese.

When the Sikkim Democratic Front party secured the mandate of the people in 1994, Sikkim was reeling under uncertain political atmosphere and the State economy was in the doldrums. But the collective voice of the Sikkimese people and our efforts made us rise from such difficult circumstances and take the State forward towards the path of development.

We have started this term in office with specific goals and missions. The Government has decided to work in a mission –mode and several Missions, to be completed by 2015 have been declared for the welfare of the people. We have embarked upon ambitious Missions such as the Poverty Free Mission, 2013, which will be the first of its kind in the country. Other important Missions include the Total Literacy, Organic State, Healthy Sikkim, Social Security, Co-operative, Self-Reliant, Green Missions, etc, all of which have been targeted towards self-sufficiency and self-reliance. It has become our imperative goal to make every Sikkimese self-reliant instead of dependent and producers instead of consumers.

Right from the time we first came to power in 1994, the Sikkim Democratic Front Government has upheld the policies of pro-poor and pro-people. People –centric Government has been our mantra from the very beginning and we are still committed to this approach. Recently, the Government has set forth tasks for every Department to be completed within 100 days, i.e 15th July,2011.Such goals have been put in place for not only providing services to the people of Sikkim but also to ensure quality and timely services to them.

I have always firmly believed that the Government mandated by the people should always be accessible to them. My decision to undertake a complete road trip of Sikkim emanates from my promise to the citizens to bring the “Government to the doorsteps of the people”. The 36 days’ long tour of the State would make us familiar with the ground realities and bring the Government machinery in direct contact with the common man. I am very confident that such personal interaction with the public at large will go a long way in improving our delivery mechanism.

Lastly, I once again thank all the people of Sikkim for supporting us for the last 17 years and I appeal to each and every one of you to come forward and work hand in hand with the Government for taking our State to greater heights!

Sikkim Democratic Front Celebrates MAY DAY across Sikkim

GANGTOK May01-All Sikkim Democratic Labour Front (ASDLF)  celebrated May Day (Labour-Day) state wide on Sunday. General Secretary, ASDLF Mr. Norzang Lepcha informed that the sikkim Democratic front  celebrated MayDay in different parts of state in a grand manner. Informing about the celebration Mr. Lepcha said that May Day here in the capital is being celebrated at Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF)Party head office at IndiraBypass where Gangtok, Arithang, Upper Burtuk and Martam Rumtek constituency people were present and the vice president , SDF Mr. DT Lepcha graced the occasion as the Chief guest. Likewise, the front also celebrated May Day at Rangpo Minning ground where Rhenock, Namcheyboong, Chujachen and West Pendam constituency people  participated and Minister for Forest Environment and Wildlife Management Department Mr. Bhim Dhungel graced the celebration as a chief guest. Whereas in North district Minister Power Mr. Sonam Gyatso Lepcha graced the celebration of May Day at Mangan Bazaar as the chief guest and the people from Dzongu, Mangshilla, Kabi - Tintek and Lachen constituency  gathered at the venue. Adding more Mr. Lepcha further informed that the Front have celebrated May Day in a grand manner at Community Centre of Geyzing where Minster Roads and Bridges Mr. RB Subba graced the occasion as the chief guest.

During the occasion of May Day Chief Minister Pawan Chamling  attended the celebration of May Day at Lamitaar, South Sikkim where the people from Timi-Tarku and other constituency people were present..

West Sikkim publicl tension boils over again

STONE PELTING OF PANCHAYAT PRESIDENT’S VEHICLE LEADS TO CHAKKA JAM

Chakung,April18:The situation in Chakung turned tense today after a vehicle belonging Chakung panchayat president, Kiran Gurung, was vandalised this morning, evoking a strong response from his supporters who effected a chakka-jam at Chakung demanding the arrest of the culprits. This situation held for around six hours and the situation normalised after the SDF youth convenor for Soreong-Chakung, Jeewan Gurung, named in the FIR as the prime accused, was taken into custody. The panchayat president, it may be informed here, was expelled from the SDF some time back and seen as belonging to the party dissidents now aligned with the disaffected SDF MLA, PS Tamang.
The situation in Chakung turned tense when a Taxi Mahindra Savari [SK-04-9012] belonging to the Panchayat President was stoned at around 9:30 a.m. Monday morning.

An FIR was lodged at Soreng Police Station and soon the people of Chakung poured out to the streets in protest against the attack, demanding the immediate arrest of the accused and bringing all traffic passing through Chakung to a halt.
SP [West], Rajiv Ranjan, arrived at Chakung soon after accompanied by the Gyalshing SDPO Devendra Arya and met with the protesting group. Eventually, the chakka jam was lifted after six hours.
The SP later informed that one Jeewan Gurung of Chakung has been arrested following his being named in the FIR and the case registered under Section 427/ 448 of the Indian Penal Code at Soreng PS. The arrest was made in the evening.
The SP further informed that the situation was now under control and that life has returned to normal in Chakung. It may be mentioned here that this was the second time that the vehicle belonging to panchayat president has been vandalized in Chakung. The last time, his private vehicle was stoned, and now his taxi has been targeted. This is also the second time in recent months that Jiwan Gurung has been accused of resorting to violence in the area. He was also arrested in connection with a murderous assault on a Singling resident some time back.
Meanwhile, reliable sources inform that the history of violence in the area has convinced Sikkim Police to open an Out-Post at Chakung which is serviced at present by the police station at Soreong, a 10-minute drive away.
Meanwhile, former SDF Panchayat member from Chakung and presently supporting the PS Tamang faction, Jacob Khaling, through a press release, adds that apart from the arrest of Jiwan Gurung, the people are also demanding the arrest of the area MLA, Roads & Bridges Minister RB Subba, arguing that only such action would guarantee peace in Chakung Bazar and ensure protection for the people there.
He further informs that an FIR was filed at Soreong PS recently on 02 April accusing him of issuing threats on the life of Kiran Gurung.
He adds that the Chakung residents took out a protest rally from Chakung Bazar to Chakung School and have also resolved that if the police fails to secure justice, the people would take adequate steps for self defence on their own

Bhoj Raj starts campaign against Pawan Chamling from Namchi

Gangtok, November 27: Where is area MLA of Upper Burtuk? Whether he will turn-up in the foundation laid programme of Mahakhim on November 27 at Ranka… the people’s speculation will remain unanswered.

The reliable source said that P S Tamang’s whereabout is still a question mark and confirmed that he’ll not present in the said official programme of the foundation laid stone of Mahakhim, the religious temple of Rai community in Ranka Rai Goan, 15 kilometers away from Gangtok.
After long speculation of sitting MLA of Upper Burtuk, P S Tamang hibernation after the assembly election in May last, might have turn in an official programme in his area, will clearly shows that he is leading the dissidence within the party and its party culture.
It is said that the people who are chasing him have not found where he is?
The party sources said that on the eve of foundation stone laying at Ranka, chief minister will hand over all the political and other charges to the government Chief Whip Ugen Bhutia besides his home constituency Tumin-Lingee.
The common people and party supporters are opposing the party’s imposing candidates from outside the constituency saying that the imposed candidates has hamper the development and other socio-political development has been pushed in the back foot from last 10 years.
On the other side, the disgruntle leader Bhoj Raj Rai today campaigned openly in Namchi Bazaar for creation of alternative to ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) under the leadership of P S Tamang.
He had met founder members of the SDF party in Namchi and advocates to alternative political outfit in the state.
However, founder members of SDF, (whose name are not disclosed on their request) said that both the disgruntled leaders are in SDF party. Party has not taken any disciplinary actions against the duo, will remain the members of the SDF party has nothing wrong to talk openly with them.
(Via Himalayan Mirror)

‘Anti-Incumbency’ wave sweeping across Sikkim Democratic Party

PS Tamang a ‘Dark Horse’ within the SDF party

Gangtok, November 25: In continuance to the waves of dissidence within the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) making rounds, a close aide to Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling has himself coded that the turbulence is actually being felt within the party ranks. On condition of anonymity, the party senior mentor today held Chamling’s ‘Dictatorial’ style of functioning responsible for the quandary.

Bouncing back on Chamling, he said “Power makes people corrupt, but absolute power corrupts absolutely” following which Chamling has surfaced as “Superlatively corrupt”. Relying high on his political career since the first Chief Minster LD Kazi’s regime, the veteran politician calculated that an absolute majority in the state assembly has always proved inauspicious in Sikkim ’s power game. Citing instances on how the late Kazi and even the Bhandari regime tumbled after having secured all 32 seats, he said that the same adversity would soon creep into the SDF.

During an exclusive interview with this publication, the senior party man further said that Chamling has gradually failed to live up to the expectations of the common people. “Even those who staked their lives to oust Bhandari and establish Chamling during the 1994 elections are today either hammered or fatally attacked”. He further rapped Chamling for the failure of his government to nab the culprits, following which similar disruptive elements are enjoying free hand in the state. To top it off, he further said that Chamling failed to convince numerous government employees who were either assured promotions or pay revision as per the recommendations of the fourth pay commission formed by Chamling himself. “After having failed to do so, the financial crisis has stalled all developmental works in the state” he said.

Interestingly, the senior leader has pointed out that a strong “Anti- Incumbency factor’ is being experienced within the SDF, that too after the elections that ended just six months back. He further attributed this factor to be the root cause of dissidence within the party.

Commenting on the party’s present state of affairs, the political veteran said “Chamling has now lost his forts, a change is obviously expected”. When asked about PS Tamang’s fortune in the Sikkimese political arena, he tagged the dissident Tamang as a ‘Dark Horse’ of the SDF. “He still has a long way to go, and is Chamling’s only substitute” he said. He further assumed that Tamang being the most popular figures in the SDF could go beyond popular expectations and could change the realms of power in Sikkim
Himalayan Mirror Bureau

Dissidence continues in Sikkim Democratic Front

Gangtok, November 19: Astounded by the recent comment of one of its former legislator Bhoj Raj Rai, who criticized Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) leader Pawan Kumar Chamling for his dictatorial style of functioning, the tremors are implied to have made the SDF ranks rickety. The situation in the ruling SDF has come to such a passé that state emissaries are seen busy computing to ascertain who among the SDF would stick to their master and who would shore up with their disgruntled MLA PS Tamang.

It is also learnt that Chamling’s ‘spin doctors’ are making tiring efforts to comprehend who would be the next after Bhoj Raj Rai to rise up against its own leader. Meanwhile, Chamling’s ‘Kitchen Cabinet’ is also busy recalling its founder member and former MLA Girish Chandra Rai during the turbulence. A member of the ‘SDF Kitchen cabinet’ on terms of anonymity informed that Girish Chandra Rai who is having a ‘cold-war’ relation with Chamling is believed to follow suit after the rebel Bhoj Raj Rai. All attempts to contact Girish Chandra Rai failed, as his mobile was out of range.

Interestingly, the SDF district level meeting slated for November 25 at Sichey public ground is seen to be deferred for November 27, the date scheduled for the foundation stone laying for a Kirat Rai Mankhim at Ranka under PS Tamang’s Burtuk constituency. Although the deferment has not been officially confirmed by the party.

It is also learnt that, DR Thapa who was earlier appointed the in-charge for the Upper Burtuk constituency is yet to assume his post while Ugen Bhutia, another party worker is expected to be replace Thapa for the post. It may be mentioned here that PS Tamang was marginalized to as the in-charge of tribal affairs of the party following a massive re-organisation within the SDF last week. Thapa’s mobile phone being switched off couldn’t be contacted for his views.

(Courtsey:Himalayan MirrorReport)
 (VoS Pictures)

Bhoj Raj Rai unfurls protest flag against Sikkim Democratic Front

‘Sikkim People are desperately seeking an alternative’

GANGTOK, November 18: After making few subdued noises against the decisions of the State Government, party advisor and former legislature Bhoj Raj Rai today raised the dissatisfaction decibel to a scream slamming the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) leadership on a host of issues notably on ‘Parivartan & Alternative’ plank.
The flags of revolt were unfurled by the SDF advisor at one of the SDF forts-MLA hostel, Sonam Gyatso Marg here at Gangtok-where he claimed that the Sikkimese Janta is ‘unsatisfied’ with the undemocratic activities of ruling front reaching ‘level of intolerance’.
“People of Sikkim are searching for an alternative”, said Mr. Rai to reporters at MLA hostel.
And the alternative is Upper Burtuk SDF legislature PS Golay, Mr. Rai said. He said that Mr. Golay will a political party desired by the Sikkimese people led by Golay will soon dawn in Sikkim.
The former legislature accused the SDF chief Pawan Chamling of trying to finish the political career of Mr. Golay. Efforts and conspiracies are still on to destabilize the popularity of Mr. Golay, he said.
When questioned on the objective of protesting against the Chief Minister from the MLA hostel, Mr. Rai asserted that he is least bothered about the consequences. “I am not afraid of anyone and I dare Chamling to expel me”, he said.
Mr. Rai’s show of confidence stems from his own claims that he is not the only one against the SDF leadership. There are many more like me and the numbers would come out in open in coming days, he said.
“When we come out in the field there will be an earthquake in Sikkim politics”, Mr. Rai said.
When questioned over his claims that ‘Sikkimese people are unsatisfied’ given the fact that it has been hardly six months since the Janta had given an absolute mandate silencing the Parivartan diatribe, Mr. Rai attributed the debacle to lack of quality Opposition and a ‘real alternative’.
“People were compelled to vote for SDF as there was no alternative to Chamling in the Assembly elections, asserted Mr. Rai. He maintained that though he has not given resignation from the ruling front, he has already left the party.
Mr. Rai claimed that Mr. Golay would be soon coming out among the masses in a new avatar. And by this time, the SDF party will have split in two halves, he claimed.
However, Mr. Rai refused to disclose the time period when Mr. Golay would come overboard.
(sikkimexpress)

Former Sikkim Minister PS Tamang continues to be sidelined

pix:SikkimExpress

GANGTOK, November 15: Having suffered a series of strategic blows including losing his home turf, denied a place in the council of ministers by rookies and annexation of his new political ground by an upstart, the patience of former Sports minister PS Tamang could be sorely tested from an unexpected quarter-football or rather a football tournament.
The second LD Kazi memorial gold cup football tournament set to begin from December 2 at Chakung, West Sikkim has one missing person among the surplus in the new tournament organizing committee-PS Tamang who had kick-started the successful tournament in 2008 donning three hats of Chakung legislature, Sports & Youth Affairs Minister and chief patron of Chakung Sports Association.
Presently, Mr. Tamang has only one hat that too a differently coloured one-Burtuk MLA, far far away from his once West Sikkim stronghold.
It may be recalled that Mr. Tamang had not only played a pivotal role in starting the tournament in the memory of the first Chief Minister of Sikkim who passed away in 2007 but had also ensured the sustainability of the tournament for a decade by roping in Jal Power Corporation to sponsor the cash prize of Rs. 3 lakhs for the tournament for a period of ten years.
Though he had ensured the sustainability of the LD Kazi memorial gold cup tournament, Mr. Tamang now one year later find himself out of his Chakung bastion and also serially sidelined in the SDF empire as a ‘persona non grata’.
According a Nepali daily newspaper report published today, the former organizing committee of the LD Kazi memorial gold cup football tournament has been disbanded and a new committee set up to conduct the second edition of the tournament scheduled to commence from December 2.
Area MLA of the newly amalgamated constituency of Chakung-Soreng, RB Subba who is also the State Roads & Bridges minister has been nominated as the chief patron of the organizing committee in a meeting conducted yesterday at Soreng. The State sports & youth affairs minister NK Pradhan, departmental secretary HK Karki and former legislature CB Rai are the patrons of the committee with RM Rai as the chief convener, the Nepali daily newspaper reported.
In fact, Mr. Tamang has making news despite ‘not being in news’ as the vernacular newspapers here continue to report about him going underground seen neither in his earlier stronghold areas of West Sikkim but also here in his electoral constituency of Burtuk who had given him a resounding mandate in the April-May 2009 Assembly elections.
With his voters left exasperated by his continuous MIA, it has been widely reported that the political charge of Burtuk has been handed over to a popular local person.
However, the ruling party quickly refuted the news as misleading.
Recently, Mr. Tamang has been included as one of the fourteen vice-presidents in the newly constituted central executive committee list of the SDF party, a move which is claimed to wider dimensions ranging from appeasement policy to a tactical step to give the reportedly disgruntled youth leader a long rope.
Meanwhile, premature reports have been speculating that Mr. Tamang or his supporters may show their cards at the end of this year.
Keeping aside such speculations, one cherished football tournament cup has already slipped out of the pioneer’s hand as people switch flanks to hail the rising sun.

Sikkim Democratic Front warns Dzongu ‘long marchers’

We don’t want any interference: SG Lepcha

14 Nov, Mangan: Feeling of resentment have already developed among the people of North Sikkim over the piligrimage of Lepchas from Darjeeling region to Dzongu proposed from this Thursday with the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) at the forefront warning the players of the ‘long march’ not to meddle in internal affairs of Dzongu.
The warning was explicitely issued during the constituency level meetings of the ruling front held at Mangan on November 12 and at Namprikdang , Dzongu yesterday which was attended by Chief Minister’s political advisor Hissey Lachungpa as the chief guest.
The meeting were coordinated by the Dzongu legistlature SG Lepcha and lachen-Mangan legislature TW Lepcha and attended by host of North Sikkim SDF functionaries and party supporters.Addressing the two meeting, Lachungpa first complimented the two legislatures for their dedication to the people and development of Dzongu and Lachen-Mangan constituency. All of us are equal and our target is to make Sikkim most progressive state by 2015 as per the vision laid by SDF government, said Lachungpa laying trust on more revenue generation sources like Hydel power. He said that the government has taken up the issue of bad road condition in North Sikkim with Border Road Organization.Then the political advisor warned the outsiders not to interfere in the developmental activities of Dzongu indicating towards the Lepchas from Darjeeling region into Dzongu ‘Long March II’.
The Dzongu MLA and also the State Power and Energy Minister SG Lepcha expressed his concern over the pilgrimage of Lepchas from Darjeeling region under the Banner of Indigenous Lepcha Tribal Association (ILTA). The people of Dzongu are against the so called piligrimage, he said.

Informing that last year, the Lepchas from Kalimpong and Darjeeling had torched his effigy at Kalimpong, the Dzongu legislature questioned the rationale of the long march. They don’t like the people and MLA of Dzongu and so what is the reason to visit Dzongu, he questioned.

SG Lepcha pointed out that the people of Dzongu had not allowed the Lepchas from Darjeeling to enter into Dzongu last year. If anything goes wrong this time, the ILTA president PT Simik will be responsible, he said. We are working on the development of Dzongu and we do not want any disturbances in the developmental activities, he said.

It may be noted that the Lepchas from kalimpong, Darjeeling, Kurseong and other parts of Darjeeling are posing to conduct a pilgrimage to Dzongu on November 19. They are planning to march Namprikdang from Rangpo.
The proposed pilgrimage has an ugly history when in April last year; the Lepchas from Darjeeling aborted their march midway to Dzongu due to open hostilities from the Lepchas of Dzongu.Anti Hydel debate was seriously surging at high at that period super headed by Affected Citizen of Sikkim (ACT) and the pilgrimage was seen as interference into internal matters of Dzongu by the people backed to the hilt by ruling establishment.
How ever ILTA president has asserted that this time the pilgrimage is purely religious one and nothing else.And this time, the pilgrimage have taken a top down approach and have approached the Union Home Ministry , Tribal Affairs Ministry and All India Adhivashi Vikash Parishad for the permission to take a three day pilgrimage to Dzongu, the last bastion of Indigenous Lepchas.ILTA has expressed its desire to march from Kalimpong to Darjeeling from November

19 to November 21. The body has also submitted our request and notified that Sikkim Government including the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary. North District

Administration and Police along with the Kalimpong subdivision and Darjeeling district administration.The ILTA president has expressed its hope that the Lepchas of Sikkim will extend a warm welcome to their Lepchas brothers separated by geographical boundaries.

Pawan Chamling reconstitute SDF Central Executive Committee

Gangtok,Nov12: In exercise of the power conferred upon him, vide Para 3 of Article 20.1 of the Constitution of Sikkim Democratic Front, SDF President Shri Pawan Chamling has been pleased to reconstitute the Central Executive Committee (CEC) of the party as under, informs SDF publicity secretary, Prem Karki, mentioning an office order whereby “all previous orders stand cancelled with immediate effect”.

RECONSTITUTED SDF CEC

President: Shri Pawan Chamling
Vice Presidents:
1. Shri D.D. Bhutia – General Affairs
2. Shri K.B.Chamling – Administration
3. Shri G.M. Gurung – In charge, South District
4. Shri D.T. Lepcha – In charge, East District
5. Shri Hishey Lachungpa – In charge, North District
6. Shri S.B. Subedi – In charge, West District
7. Shri Ram Bdr. Subba – Legal & Pol. Affairs
8. Shri P.S. Tamang – Tribal Affairs
9. Shri B.M. Ramudhamu – Labour Front/Frontal Organization
10. Shri Bhim Dahal – Press & Publicity
11. Smt. Kalawati Subba – Grievance Affairs
12. Shri T.P. Pradhan – Trade Affairs
13. Dr. D.P. Kharel – Welfare Affairs
14. Shri Rastaman Rai – Cultural Affairs
General Secretaries:
1. Shri S.K. Pradhan – Administration HQ
2. Smt. Manita Manger – In charge, Cheli Morcha
3. Shri T.N. Sharma – Press & Publicity
4. Shri Somnath Poudyal – In charge, East District
5. Shri R.N. Rai – In charge, South District
6. Shri B.B. Rai, Legship – In charge, West District
7. Shri Nim Tsh Lepcha, – In charge,
Naga North District
8. Shri Nakul Das Rai – General Affairs
9. Shri D.B. Gurung – Co-ordination
10. Shri B.S. Pant – Administration (II) &
Statistics
11. Shri Satish Chandra Rai – Frontal Organization
12. Shri Dawan Sherpa, Singtam – Tribal Affairs
13. Shri Mohan Dungmali – Organization
14. Smt Manita Pradhan – Organization
15. Smt. Bina Rai – Organization
16. Shri Norzang Lepcha – Labour Front
17. Shri Passang R. Sherpa – Organization
Treasurer: Shri C.B. Karki, MLA
Asstt. Treasurer: Shri S.S. Bokhim
Publicity Secretaries:
1. Shri Prem Karki – HO/Parivartan
2. Shri Kiran Chettri – Head Office
3. Shri Amber Rai – Head Office
4. Shri Raju Rai, Ranka – East District
5. Smt. Tirtha Subba – South District
6. Shri Ser Hang Subba – West District
7. Smt Chumki Saring – North District
Pol. Secy. to Party President
Shri Ugen Bhutia, MLA
Secretaries:
1. Shri Karma Girimi Bhutia – Youth Affairs, East District
2. Shri Sonam Dadul Bhutia- Co-ordination, West District
3. Shri Palden Bhutia – Youth Affairs, North District
4. Shri L.M. Bhattarai – Youth Affairs, East District
5. Shri Udai Chandra Rai – Youth Affairs, South District
6. Shri Pintso Namgyal Lepcha – Youth Affairs,
North District
7. Smt. Sanju Rai – Cheli Morcha, South District
8. Shri L.P. Kafley, -Youth Affairs, West District
Gerethang
9. Shri Pem Dorjee Bhutia – Administration & statistics
Geyzing
10. Shri Y.B. Thapa – Administration & statistics, E/District
11. Shri K.N. Topgay – Organization
12.Shri G.M. Gurung, – Frontal Organisation
Rangpo
13. Shri D.N. Sherpa – Organization
14. Shri Kuber Raj Rai – Organization
15. Subedar H.B. Rai – Volunteers Cell
16. Shri Bhupal Das Rai – Organization
17. Shri K.K. Thatal – Organization
18. Shri Laxuman Sharma – Organization
19. Shri Khem Pd. Dahal – Organization
20. Smt. Sumitra Subba, – Organization
Phodong
21. Shri Bal Bir Tamang – Administration & statistics, S/District
22. Shri Damber Dahal – Organization
23. Smt. Kabita Chettri – Cheli Morcha, East District
24. Smt. Chumsang Bhutia – Cheli Morcha , West District
25. Ms PintsoDoma Bhutia – Cheli Morcha, North District
26. Shri Sancha Raj Subba – Frontal Organization
27. Shri Nuk Tsh Bhutia – Frontal Organization
Convenor Youths:
1. Shri Beg Bdr. Rai, MLA – East District
2. Shri P.L. Subba, MLA – West District
3. Shri Binod Rai MLA – South District
4. Shri Tshering Wongdi Lepcha, MLA – North District
Vice-Convenor Youths:
1. Shri Yong Tsh. Lepcha, – Namcheybong Constituency
Nimtar
2. Shri Prabat Gurung, – Upper Tadong,
Tadong Constituency
3. Shri Tulman Rai, Rongli – Chujachen Constituency
4. Shri Chetan Sapkota, – Tumin Lingi Constituency
Samdong
5. Shri Kunzang Bhutia, – Syari Constituency
Chandmari
6. Shri David Gurung, – Zoom Salghari
Jorethang Constituency
7. Himal Tamang, Maniram – Namchi Singhithang
Constituency
8. Zigmee Bhuita, Ralong – Burfong constituency
9. Shri Basant Rai, – Soreng Chakung
Chumbung Constituency
10. Shri Deo Prakash Rai, – Daramdin Constituency
Ribdi
11. Shri Khamsung Lepcha- Lachen Mangan
Chungthang Constituency
12. Shri Lobden Bhutia, – Kabi Lungchok
Kabi Constituency
13. Shri Tshering Lepcha, – Dzongu constituency
Lum-Gor
14. Shri Om Adhikari – West Pendam Constituency
15. Shri Binod Subba, – Rhenock Constituency
Pacheykhani
16. Shri Jeewan Gurung, – Martam Rumtek
Rumtek Constituency
17. Shri Ram Kumar Subba – Dentam Maneybong
Constituency
18. Shri Kiran Rai, Omchu – South District
19. Shri Goshar Lachenpa – North District
20. Shri Aitaraj Rai, Salghari- Poklok Kamrang
Constituency
21. Shri Toyanath Sharma, – Rangrang Yangang
Lingmoo Constituency
22. Shri Kamal Rai – Zoom Salghari Constituency
23. Shri Bhimsen Tiwari – Timi-Namphing Constituency
24. Shri Tek Bahadur Gurung,- Gnathang Machong
Samsing Constituency
Convenor Cheli Morcha
1. Smt. Tulsi Devi Rai, MLA- South District
2. Smt. Indra Maya Gurung – West District
3. Smt. Phurmit Lepcha – North District
4. Smt. Lhakyla Tongden – East District
Vice Convenor Cheli Morcha
1. Smt. Ambika Pokhrel – East District
2. Smt. Jas Maya Subba – East District
3. Smt Jyoti Subba – East District
4. Miss Usha Tamang – East District
5. Smt. Lalita Pradhan – East District
6. Anuka Sharma, Poklok – South District
7. Smt. Tsheirng Diki – South District
Bhutia (Gurung) Ravangla
8. Ms Raj Kumari Thapa – South District
District Presidents:
1. Shri J.K. Bhandari – East District
2. Shri N.K. Subba – West District
3. Smt. Chumki Saring – North District
4. Shri Gagan Rai – South District
Advisory Board:
1. Shri B.B. Gooroong
2. Shri S.M. Limboo
3. Shri O.T.Lepcha
4. Shri Ram Lepcha
5. Shri Bhim Raj Rai
6. Shri Ugen Pintso Bhutia
7. Shri P.B.Gurung
8. Smt Chewang Lhamu
9. Smt. R. Ongmu
10. Shri D.B. Thatal
11. Shri Sonam Dupden Lepcha
12. Shri Gopal Lamichaney
13. Shri Rup Raj Rai
14. Shri Samten Tsh Bhutia
15. Shri B.B. Lohar
16. Shri Sonam Tsh. Bhutia
17. Shri Sonam Dorjee
18. Shri Thutob Bhutia
19. Shri Bhoj Raj Rai
20.Shri Sherap Palden Lepcha

SDF to release Music video album

Gangtok,October13: Sikkim Democratic Front’s (SDF) second video album “Kranti Ka dhun Haru”-2 will be released on 16th October at party headquarters, Indira By Pass, at 2:30 pm by Party President Dr. Pawan Chamling. Besides the very popular number, “Malai Sikkim Manparcha”, the album contains several other hit songs. Dance will be performed on those songs by party’s cultural unit. Live telecast of the programme will be done by Nayuma Cable. This is informed in a press release by SDF publicity secretary Amber Rai. informed.

Sikkim Democratic Front observes Garibee Unmulan Diwas

(photo courtsey:SikkimReporter)
Gangtok,September23: “People think that poverty means economic poverty but our aim is to eradicate all types of poverties like mental poverty, economic poverty and literary poverty which are all interrelated. Until a person is relieved from captivity of mental poverty, it will not possible for him to achieve prosperity. A mentally rich person can be rich in all aspects”.
This is said by Sikkim Democratic Front President and Chief Minister Dr. Pawan Chamling on Tuesday, September 22.
SDF observed the day at party headquarters as “Garibee Unmulan Diwas” (poverty eradication day) and also birthday of the party leader Dr. Chamling. On behalf of SDF, MLA and Chief Whip of the party, Mr. Ugen Gyatso, felicitated Chief Minister for the four India Today Group Awards he received for Sikkim recently. West Pendam Vikash Paramarsh Samiti also congratulated CM and presented him a memento. A book, “Spiritual Manifestation of Guru Padmasambhava”, written by Mr. D.T. Zimba of Meghalaya, was released by CM. Two minutes silence was observed for the death of party worker Bhim Rai.
Speaking as Chief Guest at the largely attended meeting Chief Minister said, “Sikkim would have remained in the past tradition if the revolt against the prevailing system did not take place. We have fought a battle against that system in which people were suppressed. Still we are fighting our battle against ignorance and poverty”.
He urged people to change mindset and shun poor thinking. He said, “though we have achieved economic strength up to a level, still we are lacking in mental strength”, adding, “weakness of a common man is his illiteracy”. Even educated youths are being deceived by some political opportunists and there is no end of baseless blames, he noted.
He sought every Minister’s and MLA’s contribution to run the government smoothly. He said, “A government is a group of representatives having a common goal. Every representative has a role to make the masses aware about every developmental work of the government. We are working with a vision but we too have some limitations. Programme of a government depends upon its vision. Every member of a government should bear responsibility of good governance”.
Chief Minister further said “My vision is to build a rich and prosperous Sikkim. All the developmental work now underway will be completed within 10-12 years. Sikkim has got a stature by receiving various awards at national level”. He mentioned, over 80,000 rural people of Sikkim have benefited in the past 15 years with various housing schemes ranging in amount from Rs.20,000 to Rs.5 lakhs. He urged all Ministers, MLAs, Chairpersons and party workers to come forward with development plans. Beautification work at every entry point of Sikkim is planned, he informed.
He said, “Let us take the pledge that SDF is not only a political party but an institution in itself”. Senior party leader Mr. D.D.Bhutia also addressed the gathering and offered every type of help to the newly elected representatives. “We have gone through a long struggle”, he said.