Chamling discuss outreach & future strategy with SDF publicity team

GANGTOK: Former Chief Minister Pawan Chamling on Tuesday chaired an important meeting of the SDF which was attended by party spokespersons and functionaries of the party’s publicity wing, a SDF press release informs.

Addressing the meeting, Chamling, also the SDF president, emphasized that good leadership is built on sound ideas, which in turn shape strong principles, effective policies, meaningful programs, and ultimately a capable government. He maintained that the absence of such governance in Sikkim today has led to public dissatisfaction and hardship, and contrasted it with what he described as the prosperity people experienced during the past SDF administration.

Chamling reminded that during the SDF government’s tenure, taxes on agricultural produce had been removed, allowing farmers to sell their products without tax burdens, and that electricity had been provided free of charge. He said these measures helped agriculture, livestock farming, and vegetable production flourish, contributing to improved living conditions in rural areas. According to him, those gains have since diminished, leaving many rural residents facing difficulties.

The SDF president emphasised that the SDF party should take responsibility for restoring the sense of justice and well-being that, in his view, people have lost. He stressed the importance of strengthening grassroots organizations, raising public awareness about citizens’ rights, interests, and security, and helping people recognize forces that may work against those interests.

He further stated that a government's duty is to improve people's lives and protect them during times of crisis, and alleged that the current administration has instead increased public burdens. He pointed to the costs associated with cooking gas, petrol, and diesel, arguing that ordinary citizens have been made to bear these expenses while those in power enjoy comfort. He said the party should unite people around such issues, and support them during difficult times.

The SDF office-bearers in the meeting also shared their views and expressed commitment to conveying the party’s message to the public. The gathering concluded with an agreement to work collectively on future strategies and organizational goals, the SDF release mentions.