“Sikkim in Danger Under SKM Rule,” Says CAP Leader Ganesh Rai
Gangtok, February 3, 2025 – Citizen Action Party (CAP) leader Ganesh Rai has raised serious concerns about the future of Sikkim under the current Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government. Speaking at a press conference, Rai accused the ruling party of failing to address key issues that could put the state at risk.
Concerns Over Sikkim-Darjeeling Merger
Rai alleged that the Sikkim-Darjeeling merger issue has resurfaced since SKM took power. He criticized the government for remaining silent on the matter despite opposing it while in opposition. “The SKM government must publicly clarify that a merger will never happen,” he demanded.
Tribal Status for 12 Communities – A Secret Meeting?
The CAP leader also questioned the secrecy surrounding a second meeting in Delhi about granting tribal status to 12 left-out communities. “Why is this discussion happening behind closed doors? The people of Sikkim have a right to know,” he said, emphasizing that local government leadership is essential for progress on state-specific issues.
Call for Assembly Discussion on Key Issues
With the Sikkim Assembly session set for February 5, Rai insisted that several pressing matters must be discussed, including:
✅ The Supreme Court’s recent domicile verdict – While a clarification was issued stating that Article 371(F) protects Sikkim, Rai warned that such rulings could still pose risks in the long run.
✅ Teesta III Dam Project Restart – He slammed the government for resuming the 1200 MW Teesta III Dam project without public consultation, despite warnings from glaciologists about ongoing threats from South Lhonak Lake.
Unfulfilled Promises and Controversial Remarks
Rai criticized the SKM government for failing to fully compensate families affected by the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) disaster. He also condemned Animal Husbandry Minister Puran Kumar Gurung for allegedly stating that those who supported CAP would not receive government benefits. “This is unacceptable and disrespectful to our people of ” Rai said.
“CAP Will Fight to Protect Sikkim”
Reaffirming his party’s commitment, Rai declared that CAP will continue to challenge SKM’s policies and stand up for Sikkim’s people. “Sikkim is the 22nd state of India, and we take pride in it. But under SKM’s rule, the state is in danger. If the government won’t protect Sikkim, we will,” he vowed.
This content originally published at Indiatodayne
