ASBS condemns CAP Sikkim's remarks on tribal status issue

GANGTOK, : The Akhil Sikkim Bhujel Sangh (ASBS) has strongly condemned the allegations made by Citizen Action Party (CAP) Sikkim president Ganesh Rai against the SKM government in connection with the recent high-level meeting held in New Delhi regarding the tribal status demand of the 12 left-out communities of Sikkim.

The meeting saw the Sikkim State High-Level Committee (SSHLC) formally submit its final ethnographic report to Chief Minister PS Golay, in the presence of representatives from the concerned communities.

During a meeting held in Gangtok on Saturday, ASBS stated that the demand for tribal status has been a long-standing issue in Sikkim. However, it is only under the present government, led by Chief Minister PS Golay, that a formal State-level committee was constituted to prepare the necessary documentation. The organisation highlighted that previous governments had not taken such initiatives to address the concerns of the left-out communities.

ASBS further stated that the granting of tribal status is not only important for the identity and recognition of the 12 left-out communities, but also crucial for their development and upliftment. They believe the status would open access to various welfare schemes and opportunities, contributing to the overall progress of the communities and the State.

The organisation took strong objection to recent social media comments made by CAP Sikkim president Ganesh Rai, which it termed as defamatory towards the State government and the Chief Minister. The ASBS alleged that such remarks were politically motivated and aimed at misleading the public. The organisation urged CAP to refrain from politicising the tribal status issue and called for a public apology from its leader.

ASBS expressed confidence in the leadership of Chief Minister PS Golay and affirmed that the present government is committed to delivering justice to the 12 left-out communities by securing tribal status for them.

The organisation also conveyed its appreciation to the Chief Minister for appointing Dr. Bishnu Bhujel as OSD in the Culture department, and Nirmala Bhujel as a member of the Sikkim State Commission for Women (SSCW). ASBS observed that these appointments reflect the government's support towards the Bhujel community and will help in preserving their culture, language, and traditions.

ASBS added that if tribal status is granted, future generations of the left-out communities will benefit significantly in various sectors such as education, employment, and socio-economic development.

The organisation concluded by stating that if CAP Sikkim leader fails to issue a public apology, further action will be initiated in accordance with the direction of EIECOS+1.

The meeting was also addressed by ASBS general secretary Dr. Bishnu Bhujel, and was attended by advisor Kishan Bhujel and other members.