Statehood celebrations should showcase our culture, tradition & history: CAP

ISABELLA GURUNG

GANGTOK, January 9: Citizen Action Party (CAP) Sikkim has raised questions on the SKM government’s decision to appoint VB Pathak as the chief administrator just after his term as the chief secretary ended. The opposition party also reiterated its objections to the State government’s plan for an Ed Sheeran concert during the 50^th Statehood Day celebrations, maintaining that funds could be spent on development.

‘Pathak’s appointment as chief administrator shows weakness in Sikkim’s governance’

Addressing a press meet here on Thursday, CAP Sikkim spokesperson Albert Gurung said CAP Sikkim strongly condemns the appointment of Pathak as the chief administrator and cabinet secretary with cabinet status.

Pathak had retired as the State chief secretary in December 2024 after serving additionally on a three-month extension. On January 1, he was appointed as the State chief administrator.

“During his tenure as the chief secretary, what significant contributions did Pathak make for the benefit of Sikkim? CAP strongly condemns this decision by the State government. Before coming to power, the SKM party frequently criticized job extensions, victimization transfers, and terminations. However, since forming the government, SKM has implemented multiple job extensions, victimization transfers, and terminations,” stated the CAP Sikkim spokesperson Albert Gurung.

Gurung added that a cabinet secretary is typically appointed at the Centre and Pathak’s appointment as a cabinet secretary here is a first for Sikkim.

“This is an immature decision, as the cabinet secretary is equivalent to a cabinet minister, making Pathak the holder of the most powerful post in the State. This demonstrates a weakness in Sikkim's governance, as retired bureaucrats are repeatedly appointed to significant positions in the State government. The Chief Minister must be held accountable for this decision,” said the SKM spokesperson.

‘Focus should be on development not on entertainment’

The CAP Sikkim was critical of the SKM government’s plans to bring international singer Ed Sheeran for a performance during the upcoming 50^th Statehood Day celebrations.

“The nominal fee for Ed Sheeran would be around Rs. 30-40 crore. Does Sikkim have that much money to spend on bringing an international singer? Newly recruited government employees have not received their salaries for over a year. The State government should prioritize the development of Sikkim, but their focus seems to be on entertainment,” said the CAP Sikkim spokesperson.

Albert maintained that the Statehood golden jubilee celebration should lay emphasis on showcasing the culture, tradition and history of Sikkim.

“With Rs. 30-40 crore, the government could repair roads connecting Rangpo to Rorathang, Dentam to Geyzing, and various routes in North Sikkim. Other productive ways to utilize this huge amount include raising scholarships, increasing the salaries of midday meal workers, enhancing old-age pensions, and establishing a medical college. Hospitals are also in poor condition and need urgent attention. If the condition of Sikkim improves, the SKM government can invite several international artists in the future. Until then, CAP strongly condemns this decision,” expressed Albert.