CM chairs high-level security review meeting on State preparedness

GANGTOK, (IPR): In view of the prevailing situation and to assess the State’s preparedness for any potential crisis, a high-level meeting was convened on Friday at Samman Bhawan chaired by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay.

The meeting was attended by Chief Minister’s political secretary Jacob Khaling, cabinet secretary VB Pathak, chief secretary R Telang, Director General of Police (DGP) Akshay Sachdeva and Heads of Departments (HODs) including officials from Health, Power, Food & Civil Supplies, Roads & Bridges, Land & Revenue departments, Sikkim Police and DCs & SPs of all districts.

The objective of the meeting was to review the readiness of key departments and to ensure a coordinated response mechanism for any emergency scenario.

During the deliberations, the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of proactive measures and inter-departmental coordination, stressing the importance of DCs and SPs of all the six districts. He issued specific directives to the concerned departments.

Power Department: The Power department has been instructed to conduct routine emergency drills and organize sensitization programmes, particularly focusing on blackout scenarios. The department must ensure quick response systems are in place and that public awareness is raised on how to respond during power blackouts.

Roads & Bridges Department: The Chief Minister directed the Roads & Bridges department to ensure all major roads remain well-maintained and operational. Emphasis was placed on preserving road connectivity which is critical for the movement of essential services, emergency response, and defense logistics. Additionally, all vital bridges must be regularly inspected and maintained to remain structurally sound and protected at all times.

Health Department: The Health department has been put on high alert. All the government hospitals are to remain fully prepared. The Chief Minister instructed that no medical personnel under essential services may avail of leave during this period, with the exception of maternity leave. Hospitals must ensure availability of medical supplies, adequate staffing, ambulance readiness, and contingency planning to handle any health emergencies.

Food & Civil Supplies Department: To prevent shortages, the Food & Civil Supplies department has been directed to maintain sufficient stocks of ration, diesel, petroleum, and all other essential commodities. Monitoring of key depots is to be intensified to ensure uninterrupted supply throughout the State.

Police and Security Forces: The Sikkim Police has been directed to step up vigil, particularly at border check-posts. The Chief Minister has instructed law enforcement agencies to conduct mock drills and flag marches regularly in co-ordination with IRB and SAP jawans. The goal is to maintain law and order and to deter any unlawful activity that could compromise the State’s peace and stability and the national security.

Land Revenue and Disaster Management Department: The department was directed to ensure the immediate installation of sirens and public warning systems across all districts and key towns of the State. These systems must strictly adhere to the technical specifications prescribed by the Government of India to ensure standardization and effectiveness.

In addition, the department has been instructed to mobilize trained disaster management supervisors and coordinators, who are already strategically posted throughout the State. These personnel are to be deployed promptly in the event of any emergency to support response and coordination efforts on the ground.

In his address, the Chief Minister firmly reassured the public that the Government of Sikkim is taking all essential and proactive measures to uphold the safety, security, and sovereignty of the State and, by extension, the nation.

“These efforts are part of a larger strategy to safeguard the peace, integrity, and territorial sanctity of Sikkim, especially considering our State’s strategic importance and proximity to international borders. It is our foremost duty to ensure the security of our people and contribute to national preparedness. I urge all citizens to remain calm, vigilant, and responsible. Cooperate fully with the administration and security forces, and avoid spreading or relying on unverified content on social media that could create unnecessary alarm or disrupt public order,” the Chief Minister stated.

He reiterated that the State government is committed when it comes to public safety, emergency preparedness, and national security, and will continue to work tirelessly to maintain peace and stability throughout Sikkim.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister reassured the public that the government is taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety and security of Sikkim and its residents.

“These measures are being taken to safeguard the peace, stability, and sanctity of our State. Given Sikkim’s strategic location and international borders, it is imperative that we remain vigilant and prepared. I urge all citizens to stay calm, cooperate with authorities, and refrain from spreading or believing unverified information on social media that could lead to panic or confusion,” the Chief Minister stated.

The national security is our priority and the State government remains committed to protecting the welfare of its people and maintaining public order at all times, said the Chief Minister.