SIKKIM OBSERVER Nov 17-23

Bhandari calls for opposition unity, sides with Golay

Gangtok, Nov 16: Former chief minister and Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee President NB Bhandari has reiterated the need for opposition unity in the State to dislodge the Chamling Government, which has been in power for nearly two decades.

This revelation came during a public meeting at Bhandari’s native village of Malbasey, near Soreong in west district recently. Bhandari and rebel ruling party legislator PS Golay were invited by Phurba Singh Tamang, who contested for the Malbasey Zilla Panchayat seat.

Though Golay was not present at the meeting due to his engagement in a legal matter, Bhandari said there was some kind of understanding between the Congress party and Golay and his supporters. He also pointed in the ensuing panchayat polls he and Golay were together.

Former MLA and Golay’s aide Bhoj Raj Rai said their new party will be ‘led’ by Golay and ‘blessed’ by Bhandari.

The former chief minister has been raising the issue of opposition unity to oppose the ruling party and government.

Bhandari said independent candidates who win in the ensuing polls would be with the government formed by the new party.

Demand for Assembly seat reservation for Nepalese raised in seminar

Gangtok, Nov 16: After keeping the issue in cold storage for years the demand for restoration of seats reserved for Sikkimese Nepalese in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly has again been raised by the political leadership of the State in the opposition camp.

The issue was raised during a seminar held here recently where former chief minister and State Congress President Nar Bahadur Bhandari, former Sikkim Lok Sabha MPs, PM Subba and Nakul Das Rai, former ministers KN Upreti and Tseten Tashi Bhutia were present.

Apart from the demand on Assembly seat reservation of the Nepalese those who aired their views at the seminar said politicization of the panchayat system was not in the interest of the people.

The seminar was organized by Concerned Society of Sikkim, whose convenor is Nakul Das Rai. According to Rai the seminar was organized for “leaders and intellectuals” to “sensitize” people on important issues concerning the State with a view to “promoting consensus” on these issues.

Most of the participants belonged to various opposition parties while there were few who represented social organizations.

Former chief secretary PK Pradhan and former MLAs NB Khatiwada and Pradeep Yonzone were also present during the function. (also see edit on page 2)

SIKKIM REMEMBERS NEHRU ON HIS BIRTHDAY

Gangtok, Nov 16: The birthday of the first Prime Minister of India Pd. Jawaharlal Nehru was celebrated here on Wednesday. The function started with garlanding the bust of Pd. Nehru at Zero Mile, Jawarharlal Nehru Road, by Governor BP Singh which was followed by main function at Chintan Bhawan.

    (L to R) Prince Palden Thondup Namgyal, Indira Gandhi, Chogyal Tashi Namgyal, Jawaharlal Nehru, Political Officer      

    Apa Pant and Dewan Nari Rustomji in Sikkim in 1958.

Recalling Nehru’s affection for Sikkim, Singh revealed the former Prime Minister’s interest in starting the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (NIT)m which is a treasure trove of Tibetan and Himalayan  literature and artifacts.

Founded by Chogyal Tashi Namgyal of Sikkim in 1958, the institute was inaugurated by Nehru on October 1, 1958. The other two institutes of its kind are in Tokyo and Moscow.

While expressing satisfaction over the work undertaken by the State Government in providing basic facilities and education to children, the Governor urged civil society to ensure prevention of child labour, which he said was not only illegal but immoral as well.

Editorial

SIKKIM ISSUES

Role Of The Intellectual

Former Sikkim Lok Sabha MP Nakul Das Rai’s efforts to hold a seminar for ‘leaders and intellectuals’ in Gangtok to seek their views on vital issues that concern Sikkim is a welcome step given the lack of exchange of views on such issues in Sikkim these days. Rai not only belonged to the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front, which always boasted of restoring democracy in Sikkim, but is also in a comfortable position – now that he is no more with the ruling party – to judge whether Sikkim and the Sikkimese people are in a better position now or then when his former party took over the reigns of power in 1994. Understandably, almost all active participants at the seminar are politicians or would-be future ‘leaders’ of the State and seeking their views on the prevailing political situation in Sikkim would only provide a platform for them to hit against the ruling dispensation. It would be naïve on our part to expect any kind of balanced views from such people on issues and challenges that Sikkim faces.

Generally speaking, an intellectual is a person who is quite detached from society but who at the same time can evoke strong response from people by the views they express and represent. Intellectuals can be writers, musicians, artists, philosophers, social scientists, political activists etc. Someone rightly said: “The essential role of an intellectual is that of a dissident, a time-consuming, long and silent process.” Politicians can also be termed as intellectual though there are very few politicians who are intellectuals. The role of intellectuals have limited use in a society such as in Sikkim where autocracy prevails in a democratic set-up.  One-man-rule and one-party-system in Sikkim has been going on for nearly four decades and to expect people to exercise their democratic rights freely and fearlessly in such an atmosphere is a bit too much to expect from them. This is why Rai and his companions found it very difficult to trace people who may fall under the general definition of an intellectual. On the other hand there is no dearth of ‘leaders’ in Sikkim who come in many shades and who become active only during elections. We ought to know by now that yesterdays ‘unconcerned’ citizens become ‘concerned’ citizens today and today’s concerned citizens become unconcerned citizens once they assume power. That is why society does not take note of issues they raise no matter how important they may be. This perhaps is the main issue in Sikkim which needs debating.

US Senate honours Tibetan leader Lodi Gyari

Gangtok, Nov 16:  Senator John Kerry (D-Mass.), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, recently introduced a resolution to honor the contributions of Lodi Gyaltsen Gyari as Special Envoy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and in promoting the legitimate rights and aspirations of the Tibetan people.

 Senators Richard Lugar (R-Ind.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Mark Udall (D-N.M.), Joe Lieberman (I-CT), John McCain (R-AZ), Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) and Barbara Boxer (D-Caif.) joined Kerry as original cosponsors.

“Lodi Gyari committed himself at a very young age to tear down the walls of the oppression in Tibet, and went on to be an effective leader and spokesperson for the Tibetan people and a loyal envoy for His Holiness the Dalai Lama,” said Sen. Kerry. “We honor all of the work he has done to advance the cause of the Tibetan people, and their struggle for genuine autonomy, human rights, and dignity, and for the preservation of Tibetan linguistic, cultural and religious traditions once and for all.”

Gyari, who was born in Nyarong, Kham in 1949, was recognized according to Tibetan Buddhist tradition as a reincarnate lama and began his monastic studies at 4 years of age in Lhumorhab Monastery, which was located in what is now Kardze Prefecture, Sichuan Province.

In 1958, 9-year-old Gyari fled Nyarong with his family after Chinese occupation of his country and sought refuge in India and lived in Darjeeling for some time and studied in Mt. Hermon School.

 Gyari “began a career-long commitment to the Tibetan struggle against Chinese oppression in Tibet,” the resolution said and pointed out that he also became editor for the Tibetan Freedom Press, founder of the Tibetan Review, the first English language journal published by Tibetans in exile, and a founding member of the Tibetan Youth Congress.

Gyari served as a civil servant in the Central Tibetan Administration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, as Chairman of the Tibetan Parliament in exile, and as a Deputy Cabinet Minister for the Departments of Religious Affairs and Health and Cabinet Minister for the Department of Information and International Relations.

In 1991, Gyari moved to the United States in the capacity of Special Envoy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and was soon after selected to be President of the International Campaign for Tibet.

Since then Gyari has met with leaders and diplomats of governments around the world and with Members of the United States Congress and parliaments of other nations to work for the cause of Tibet and Tibetans.

In 1998, His Holiness the Dalai Lama authorized Special Envoy Lodi Gyari to be the principal person to reestablish contact with the Chinese government on the Tibetan issue.

Between September 2002 and January 2010, Gyari led the Dalai Lama’s negotiating team in 9 formal rounds of meetings with Chinese officials with “tireless drive and immense skill, winning the respect of the international community,” the resolution said.

The resolution has taken note of Gyari’s achievements in “building an international coalition support for Tibet,” with a view to preserving “the distinct culture and religious traditions of Tibet.”

After the Dalai Lama gave up political power Gyari, too, resigned from his post.

Dirty Angels ride for a cause

Gangtok, Nov 16: The Dirty Angels Bikers Club of Sikkim has been proving to be a group of messiahs for the needy. Roaring through the hills, the young boys from Sikkim show that behind their leather jackets and tough looks, is a will to make a difference.

Mayalmu Sang, an NGO in Tadong, located below here, is one of the many stops that the young bikers make. They help them with supplies and at times are all ears. Mayalmu Sang member says, "They come and support us, it feels very nice. We need donations and help."

Sometimes through words and often through signs, the men prove that when language fails, all you need is the will to reach out. Mayalmu Sang inmate Bishnu Tamang says, "It's good when the brothers come to visit us. We feel loved when people from outside come and accept us the way we are," CNNIBN reported.

Organising fund-raisers and spreading the message of help, they are men on a mission. Dirty Angels Motorcycles Club founder Tshering Lepcha says, "We are a bridge between the government and the youth and we tell them to be positive in life, not to drugs but to reach out."

"It's a passion for all of us and our bikes are a medium for us. When we go out on ten bikes, people look at us, we get attention," says Dirty Angels member Ringzing Nadikpa. For a state where most young men and women aspire for a government job, these men have decided to do their bit for others.

Govt lifts ban on import of eggs

Gangtok, Nov 16: The State Government has finally acted on public grievances on shortage of eggs in the State and has lifted the ban on import of poultry eggs.

Animal Husbandry Secretary DP Sharma said the ban has been temporarily lifted for three months till December 31 “in view shortage of poultry eggs in the local market.”

Sharma said the department will carry a survey on demand and supply of eggs in the State.

The State Government had banned import of poultry products in 2009 after the outbreak of bird flu in neighbouring West Bengal.

However, the ban was not lifted even after bird flu scare was over. Observers have pointed out that this situation helped special interest groups in the State to make a fast buck.

There has also been a growing demand for lifting ban on sale of imported chicken in the State. Compared to local chicken sold in the market cost of imported chicken are cheaper.

OBITUARY Rinchen Doma Reechung

She was a perfectionist par excellence

BY KC PRADHAN

    The Late Mrs. Rinchen Doma Reechung at the reception she organized for the visiting President of India, Neelam    

    Sanjeeva Reddy (seated on her left), at Pemayangtse Tourist Lodge, Geyzing (West Sikkim), in October 1979. Also seen in 

    the picture are former Sikkim Governor BB Lal (on her right) and Chief Minister NB Bhandari (front).

Sikkim lost another eminent personality in Rinchen Doma Reechung. She did her Preliminary Law from Mumbai and joined the Sikkim Durbar Service in 1969 as Assistant Superintendent, GICI (Govt. Institute of Cottage Industries). She was one the ablest administrators and a no-nonsense officer blessed with drive and artistic talents.

During my long tenure in Sikkim Tourism, I got to see her administrative capabilities from very close quarters and feel no hesitation in endorsing that every assignment entrusted to her was carried out with perfection and finesse unknown at that time.

She was at the Department when tourism was in a nascent stage in Sikkim and we tried to use her prodigious skills to the best extent possible. For example, when Sikkim was allotted a corner for a Sikkim Tourism Counter at the Bagdogra airport, she was assigned the task to design and execute it. She did it so well that it remained a real showcase to project Sikkim.

She was meticulous - a perfectionist par excellence I should say – which is a rarity in the administration. She was undoubtedly a one person army and once a job was assigned she did not tolerate any interference. She was a workaholic to the extent that she ruined her health many times by stressing herself too much. I remember the way she organized several functions, including the visit of the then President of India, Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy, to organizing Sikkim Evenings at Sikkim House in New Delhi with poise and finesse that flowed in her so effortlessly. Her contributions to the realm of Sikkim Tourism are immense.

As Secretary Culture, she brought in many innovative ideas and the various programmes performed in various parts of the country were highly appreciated. Her contributions at GICI, where she brought in a breath of fresh air, are equally praiseworthy.

It needs to be accepted that she laid the foundations of many of the departments that she was associated with. She was a hard task-master and considerate at the same time and her subordinates loved her. As for her bosses, they needed special skills to handle her.

It is hard to get an Officer so dedicated to her job, such a perfectionist and honest to the core. Like her late father, Tse Ten Tashi (TTT), an eminent personality in his own versatile manner, she was a person in a hurry. Idleness was not in her nature and she did not tolerate it in others either. In many ways, like her father, she was ahead of her times.

She accompanied her late husband Reechung Rinpoche, hailing from the illustrious Pheunkhang nobility of Lhasa in Tibet – the family OF 11^TH Dalai Lama dating back to 1838 – and also once Director of the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, to many foreign sojourns. He, a very humble personality, was an authority on the Tibetan system of medicines.

It was she who persuaded her husband to write a book on it and the outcome was ‘Histoire De La Medecine Tibetaine’ written in French in association with his long-time friend Jean-Paul R. Claudon and Published by Wellcome Trust, London, in 1989. The book was first of its kind and was very well received and he was highly respected.

Temperamentally they were poles apart, but yet they had high regard for each other. If Rinpoche was the fountainhead of knowledge on very many intricate Tibetan rituals, Rinchen Doma was the driving force who brought grace wherever they travelled abroad. She was a rare personality infused with Sikkimese ethos. Aggressive and yet humble and knew perfectly well how to glide in high circles with grace and humility.

Sadly, her health deteriorated over the years and led a forlorn life confined in her apartment in Development Area, Gangtok. Their large families were, however, always by her side to boost her morale. In her passing away the illustrious Rhenock nobility lost their seniormost member in the family.

We miss her immensely. We pray to the Almighty that her soul rest in peace. (KC Pradhan is a former Chief Secretary, Sikkim.)

Sikkim Observer Nov 10, 2012

Jigme N Kazi'a blog is : jigmenkazisikkim.blogspot.com

Democracy essential for media: Guv

Press must offer “guidance and leadership”: Justice Katju

     Governor BP Singh addressing the gathering at the National Media Conference in Gangtok on Wednesday.

Gangtok, Nov 9: Governor Balmiki Prasad Singh was quite critical of a section of the media which catered to the needs to the “rich and powerful” at the cost of the general public.

While he described the Press as “lamp of democracy”, Singh pointed out that the Press cannot be seen to serve society if it catered to the interest of the “rich and powerful.”

Speaking at the inaugural function of the National Media Conference here at Chintan Bhawan on Wednesday, Singh said, “Media is essential for democracy but democracy is also essential for media.”

Singh, who is himself an author and scholar, wondered what purpose would media houses serve if they are run by corporate bodies. “If corporates run media  - whose interest do they serve?” said Singh. He said the role of the Press is to “inform and guide” society and not merely for “entertainment.”

Taking another dig at the media, Singh also referred to “advertisement-related Freedom of Press” during his brief and very enlightening talk to mediapersons, who had gathered here to address the “problems and prospects” of media in the backward northeast region of the country.

Press Council of India Chairman Justice Markandey Katju said the main role of media in the country, which is going through a very difficult “transitional period” is to offer “guidance” and “leadership.”

This is Justice Katju’s second visit to Sikkim – his first was in 1973 when Sikkim was an independent country.

Justice Katju said freedom of speech and expression is meaningless in a country such as India where a vast majority of its people are still living in abject poverty.

He said the Press must help the people to overcome their difficulties and “change society” so that people can live with dignity and decency.

IPR Minister CB Kari, IPR Secretary KS Tobgay, President Indian Journalists Union SN Sinha, senior journalist from Sikkim – Pema Wangchuk and Amit Patro – also  spoke on the occasion.

The conference, which had participants from mediapersons from outside the State, was organised by Sikkim Journalists Union, Press Club of Sikkim and Indian Journalists Union in collaboration with the Information and Public Relations Department, Sikkim Government.

Golay gets warm welcome in Lachen, Lachung

“No development in North Sikkim”

   PS Golay (inset) with the Lachenpas in Lachen on Thursday.

Lachen, Nov 9: Rebel leader PS Golay’s visit to the tribal-dominated district of North Sikkim, particularly in Lachen and Lachung, immediately after the recent panchayat polls has been keenly observed.

“I have come here not seek your votes but to find out the problems you are facing,” Golay said at the Dzumsa (traditional assembly of the people) in Lachen yesterday.

Golay arrived here from Lachung on Wednesday and was well-received by the people here. He visited the Lachen Monastery and met the lamas and sought their blessing.

During his public meeting at the Dzumsa the next day, the former minister, who is on the verge of forming his own political party, said the main problems faced by the people of Lachen and Lachung are scarcity of drinking water, poor roads and lack of power. He said he was concerned about the lack of development in Lachen and Lachung although funds are available.

North Sikkim, particularly Lachen-Lachung and Dzongu region, is inhabited largely by Sikkim’s pure stock of Bhutias and Lepchas and as such the rebel leader’s visit to the district to measure the ground before he forms his own political outfit was important, according to his supporters.

SDF sweeps panchayat polls, both camps claim ‘victory’

Gangtok, Nov 9: Both camps – ruling and opposition – have claimed ‘victory’ in the just-concluded elections to the two-tier panchayat system in the State.

While Chief Minister and ruling Sikkim Democratic Front President Pawan Chamling has hailed his party’s landslide victory in the panchayat polls as a “victory” of the people, his rivals, including former chief minister and State Congress President NB Bhandari, said the results of the polls was a “victory” of the people who want change in the State.

Close aides of former minister and dissident ruling party leader PS Golay say the fact that as many as 92 independents have been voted from the panchayat wards is an indication that there are disgruntled elements within the ruling dispensation.

They say Golay did not participate in the panchayat polls but helped those who fought against the ruling party as independents.

Referring to the results of the 13 wards in east district, Golay aide Jacob Khaling said the manner in which the results were withheld and announced later on was a “conspiracy” to defeat independents candidates in east district where 44 independents have been elected. SDF bagged 11 wards in east district after the recheck, leaving only 2 to independents.
More than 50 per sent of seats in gram panchayat and substantial percentage of seats of zilla seats were won by the ruling party even before the polls as these seats were uncontested. Thus, out of 430 wards where polls were held SDF won 339 seats. Out of the total of 987 wards the ruling party has bagged 895 wards, leaving 92 wards to independents.

Of the 70 contesting zilla seats the ruling party won 65 seats. In the zilla polls, SDF bagged 103 seats while 5 seats went to independents. (also see page 3)

CM raises Limboo-Tamang seat issue with PM, Shinde

PM to visit Sikkim in February

Gangtok, Nov 9: Chief Minister Pawan Chamling wants an early resolution to the demand for Assembly seat reservations for Limboos and Tamangs, who have been declared scheduled tribes in the State.

He raised this issue during his meetings with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde in New Delhi yesterday.

Presently, of the 32 seats in the Assembly 12 seats are reserved for Bhutia-Lepchas, 2 for scheduled castes, 1 for Sangha and the rest 17 seats are in the general category. If the State Government fails to get the demand met it may lose the support of the Limboos and Tamangs for whom this promise was made by the State Government on several occasions. Assembly polls in the State are scheduled for early 2014 and as such this demand is critical to the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front, whose main political base has been the OBC community to which the Limboos and Tamangs, who belong to the Nepalese community, once belonged.

During his meeting with Shinde, the Chief Minister also raised the issue of granting ST status to ‘left out’ communities in the State.

The Chief Minister also urged the Centre to allow His Holiness the 17^th Karmapa Ugyen Trinley Dorjee to visit the State in March next year when His Holiness the Dalai Lama inaugurates the Buddha Park in Ravangla, South Sikkim.

During his meeting with Union Minister of State (independent charge) for Power Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Chamling urged the Centre to help the State harness its hydro power potentials. Chamling invited the Minister to visit the State in this regard at an early date.

On the invitation extended by the Chief Minister, Singh said he would visit the State in February next year to inaugurate the Second International Flower Festival and lay the foundation stone of Sikkim University in Yangang, South Sikkim.

Editorial

FREE PRESS

News Is What Someone Wants To Suppress

The point that Governor BP Singh was making at the National Media Conference in Gangtok this week was well taken by a section of the media present at the meet. Singh rightly questioned the value and credibility of news and information procured from media houses which catered to the ‘rich and powerful’ and at times are backed or owned by the corporates. Those who advocate press freedom among mediapersons must seriously take note of the Governor’s comment on ‘advertisement-related press freedom.’ Those who serve the interest of special interest groups cannot and must not be allowed to be clubbed along with those who represent the Fourth Estate, internationally regarded as one of the four pillars of democracy. We are reminded of what Lord Northcliffe, a British publisher of the last century,  said about news: “News is what somebody somewhere wants to suppress; all the rest is advertising.” Mediapersons – local, regional, national and international – ought to know how true this observation is. Governors rarely make controversial statements in public and that, too, on touchy issues. Singh must be applauded for his candid remarks; he was telling the truth. His observation that while the media is essential for democracy, democracy is also essential for the media ought to evoke the right response from those in power who preach so much about democracy and yet practise autocracy.

The State Government and media establishments responsible for the conference have done the right thing by holding such a meet on the “problems and prospects” faced by the media in the northeast. Normally, the problems faced by the Press in this region and elsewhere concern journalists and media establishments which are independent and who do not work for the ‘rich and powerful.’ As such care should have been taken by the organizers to get reactions and views from mediapersons who are more independent and credible. We waste so much time, energy and resources by holding seminars and workshops on various issues that are not properly conducted. If the motive of the media conference is to learn of the ‘problems and prospects’ faced by the media in the northeast a more close and interactive session among few interested persons would have been more beneficial. Perhaps this could be taken up in our next session. However, what ought to be noted is that at the heart of challenges facing the Press in the region and the country is that vested interests don’t want a free Press. In such a scenario, the Press must play a leading role in giving the right guidance and direction on numerous issues faced by the people.

GTA Chief Executive Bimal Gurung gets Minister of State rank

Darjeeling, Nov 9: The state government on Tuesday formally upgraded Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) chief executive Bimal Gurung to the rank of a minister (MIC) of state with independent charges. The governor's office faxed an order to the GTA and the Darjeeling district administration apprising the State Government's decision.

"At present, I am on an official tour in Delhi and have not got hold of the state government order. But yes, the GTA chief executive has been promoted to the status of MIC of state," Darjeeling DM and chief principal secretary to the GTA Saumitra Mohan said.

GTA deputy chief executive Colonel (retired) Ramesh Allay has been made the minister of state (MOS) while the GTA Sabha chairman Pradeep Pradhan has been conferred the rank of a deputy minister.

"It is a protocol status that has been given to us by the state government as we did not have any so far in spite of being GTA members. This is a welcome decision," said one of the members on condition of anonymity. Fourteen executive members of the GTA have also been upgraded and given the rank of secretaries to the state government.

The GTA member pointed out the order was to be implemented with immediate effect: "The order has come from the governor's office which mentions that it should be come into immediate effect."

 PANCHAYAT POLLS

11 SDF candidates, 2 independents win in east district after result recheck

Gangtok, Nov 9: There was no re-poll in the 13 wards in east district where results were withheld due to ‘tabulation error.’ Instead the east district collector-cum-district panchayat election officer D. Anandan on Wednesday said after the matter was examined by the State Election Commission it was found that a re-poll was not necessary as there was only a “simple mistake” during  “transferring of the result from the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) to the result sheet,” an official release said.

The release also said, “It is further observed that the contesting candidate of these wards have neither submitted their objection and claim for a re-poll in writing, without receipt of which the proposal for re poll should not have been initiated.”

The Election Commission had directed the Returning Officer of respective Gram Panchayat Wards to recheck the record available in EVMs pertaining to these wards, recount the votes in the presence of contesting candidates or their counting agents and declare the results.

According to the results, 11 SDF and 2 independent candidates were declared winners from the 13 wards.

Local media condemn attack on Now office          

Gangtok, Nov 9: Media organizations in the State have condemned the attack on the office of Sikkim Now, an English daily published from Gangtok, and have demanded

safety of journalists working in the State.

Reacting to the incident, the Press Club of Sikkim said Now’s office was attacked by supporters of one Mrs Bibi Doma Tamang at 11.15 p.m on Wednesday night.

Tamang led her supporters and “attacked the office of the daily” and “damaged signboards, doors and window panels etc.,” according to the Club’s General Secretary Joseph Lepcha.

Tamang, a candidate for panchayat ward from Kabi Tingda constituency in north district, was defeated in the recent election, the release said.

The Press Club, which has the support of Indian Journalists’ Union, Journalist Club of Siliguri and Press Club of Kalimpong, has urged the State Government to ensure safety of journalists and newspaper houses in the State. It has also urged the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front to “take action against those members who were involved in the attack.”

While condemning the attack, the Sikkim Federation of Working Journalists (SFWJ) said the “failure of the administration to bring to book those elements responsible for attack on media houses in Sikkim during the past has emboldened such elements to vent their displeasure on media houses and the journalists.”

The Federation has urged the administration “to ensure safety and security of all media persons and houses of Sikkim.”  It has reiterated its demand on providing “CCTV cameras to all media houses so that journalists and media houses in the region work in a safe and secure environment to carry out their professional duties,” a press statement by Federation’s General Secretary Khagendramani Pradhan said.

Political parties and social organizations have also condemned the attack. The local media held a protest rally here yesterday over the attack.

Take proposals seriously, Chief Secy tells central team

Gangtok, Nov 9: A high-level inter-ministerial team of the Government of India headed by V Vumlunmang, Joint Secretary Ministry of Home Affairs, held a wrap-up meeting on damages occurred during the recent flash floods and landslide in the State.

The meeting was presided over by the Chief Secretary Karma Gyatso in presence of Additional Chief Secretary R. Ongmu along with the entire departmental heads here on Thursday.

The meeting discussed the findings of the central team and report prepared by the State Government, according to an official release.

Vumlunmang appreciated the efforts of the State Government and assured that his team would make the recommendations sympathetically to the Centre.

Gyatso urged the central team to view the State Government’s proposal with all seriousness keeping in view the peculiar situation of the hill State.

Eye camp held at Lingee, cataract operation in Namchi shortly

Lingee (South Sikkim), Nov 9: Cataract Screening Camp for south district held an eye  camp in Lingee Primary Health Sub Center (PHSC) on Wednesday.

Led Eye Specialist Dr. Twinkey Bhutia and her team, which included eye technician Ms Praneeta Chetteri, the camp screened some 50 patients from the area for refractive error and cataract and detected 8 cataract patients. The patients have been invited for free cataract operation camp which will be held in Namchi District Hospital on November 22-24.

Chief Medical Officer (South) Dr. Bimal Rai, who was also present during the camp, visited Lingmoo and Lingee PHSCs and inspected them.

During the camp he also informed that during the up-coming free cataract operation camp in Namchi, patients belonging to BPL category will also be given free transportation.

Cataract Screening Camp for the people of Namchi and surrounding areas will be held on November 20-21.  Till date, 46 patients have been detected with cataract problem in south district. They are likely to undergo cataract operation shortly.

‘Mountain Explorers’ cyclists to create awareness on environment, creativity

Gangtok, Nov 9: The newly-formed mountain cyclist group – ‘Mountain Explorers’ – wants to create better awareness on safeguarding the environment and supporting creativity among the youths of the State.

Launched here on Sunday, the cyclists’ first trip in the State was a tour of adjoining areas of the capital. The 70 km expedition started here at Tashi View Point and covered areas such as Bhusuk, Assam Lingzey and Pakyong.

Chief coordinator of the group Prabin Khaling’s idea was supported well by the other coordinators and members to make the adventure successful.

In future, “Mountain Explorer” will initiate adventure ride in the unexplored parts of the State with social messages. “With such kinds of pollution-free tour covering remote and inaccessible villages, we hope that we can create awareness among the youths and spread our message of adventure sports and beautiful nature”, said Khaling.

With strong focus on clean environment the boys took a ride amid the lush green forest of Bhusuk Valley, rough tracks enroute to Assam Lingzey, crossing Bhusuk River, streams and bridges. The tour also covered lots of landmarks and tourist sites like Pabyuik Monastery and the popular home stay at Paanchtheng village.

The other coordinators of the adventure group “Mountain Explorers” include Samir Hang Subba and Bhaichung Yonzon. The members include Sumit Chettri, Karma Bhutia, Dawa Bhutia, Raju Chettri (technician), Sameer Subba, Sonai Biswajeet Chakroborthy (technician). The tour was also supported by the Gangtok based travel agency, Himalayan Footprints.

Jigme N Kazi’s blog: jigmenkazisikkim.blogspot.com

SIKKIM OBSERVER        Oct 29, 2012

North Sikkim neglected by govt: Golay

“SDF panchayat candidates will join our party”

Gangtok, Oct 28: Stating this he is on the verge of forming his own political party, rebel ruling Sikkim Democratic Front leader and legislator PS Golay said after he forms his party all SDF panchayat candidates who have won unopposed will join his party.

Addressing a meeting of his supporters at Kabi in North Sikkim today, Golay said the north district remains a neglected area and referred to the poor maintenance of the road condition in the region. The former minister also pointed out that most victimized government employees are shunted to north district rendering the tribal-dominated region with poor social services.

Referring to the demand for early return of the 17^th Karmapa to Sikkim, Golay pointed out that the failure of the authorities to fulfill this demand was due to a note submitted to the Centre by former chief secretary of the State, KS Rao. He alleged that the State Government was ignoring the issue.

Golay’s supporters have already announced the formation of their political party once the panchayat polls are over. The panchyat polls will be held on November 3 and the polls process will be over by November 9. It appears that they are waiting for an auspicious day to declare formation of the party.

 Sikkim’s Sangay selected for TV serial

Gangtok, Oct 28: Sangay Udenla (21), who hails from Gangtok, has been selected for Doordarshan Primetime Television Serial based on famous author Ruskin Bond’s “Ek Tha Rusty”.

Shooting for the serial will take place at Mussorie, Dehradun, soon.  Sangay’s debut music video album as an actor in recently-released debut album of Mahima Rai “No One” had identified her looks by New Delhi-based Doordarshan Director. She is one of the findings of Sikkim Model Hunt 2012.

Sangay is a final year student of Political Science (Hons) in Daulatram College , New Delhi.

“Kazi ensured that political rights of BLs were safeguarded”

Sikkim monk body honours Jigme N Kazi for his contribution to Sikkim

Resolutions on monastic estates, reservation for BLs in panchayat system passed

(L to R) Jigme N Kazi, Former Sikkim Chief Minister Nar Bahadur Bhandari, former Sikkim Lok Sabha MP Pahal Man Subba and former Minister KN Upreti at a seminar in Gangtok (file photo)

Gangtok, Oct 28: Senior journalist and author Jigme N Kazi was on Sunday (Oct 21) honoured for his “outstanding contribution to the Sikkimese” by a monk body of Sikkim.

A resolution passed by the Council of Sikkimese Monasteries said Kazi’s contribution helped to ensure that the “political rights” of Sikkimese Bhutia-Lepchas and Sangha were legally safeguarded when a member of the larger Nepalese community challenged the Assembly seat reservation of the Bhutia-Lepchas and the Sangha, representing the Buddhist monks of the former Buddhist Kingdom of Sikkim.

As a “mark of recognition and acknowledgement” for his “outstanding contribution” to Sikkim and the Sikkimese people, representatives of all the Goenchen Thrug i.e. six premier monasteries of Sikkim offered Tashi Jeda (khadas) to Kazi and his wife Tsering T. Namgyal, a teacher at Tashi Namgyal Academy (TNA), a press release of the All Sikkim Monasteries Association said.

Kazi expressed his happiness on being conferred with such monastic honour and said that his contribution in ensuring Sikkimese rights was without any expectation for power and fame, the release said.

Kazi “showed his extra-ordinary zeal and exercise” in the legal battle in the Supreme Court in the 1980s which “ultimately ensured political rights of the BLs,” the release added.

Addressing the gathering Kazi said those who represented the minority Bhutia-Lepchas from the 13 reserved seats have not risen up to the expectation of their communities. He said his work in the past three decades revolved around the need to preserve unity, harmony and distinct identity of the three ethnic communities – Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalese – while  also looking into the aspirations of the old business community in the State.

Prominent among those who were present at the function included Yapo Gaydrol Tempa Gyatso Lama of Pemayangtse Monastery, Yap Dorje Lobon (Ralong Monastery), Yap Umjoed Kinzang Paljor Lama (Phensang Monastery), Lobon Gaydrol (Tashiding Monastery), Chewang Lama (Phodong Monastery),

Lopon Dup Tshering Lama (Rumtek Monastery) and Cho Tshering Norbu (Enchey Monastery).

Yap Trungyik Tashi Wangdi of Tashiding Monastery, Yapo Lharip Topden, President, Denzong Lhadey Tsogpa, Yapo Sonam Yongda, a monk of Pemayangtse Monastery and the Late Chogyal’s aide-de-camp, and former minister and Sangha MLA Namkha Gyaltsen were also present on the occasion and offered khadas to Kazi and wife. Other representatives of all the six premier monasteries and Enchey Monastery were also present during the function.

The meeting was efficiently coordinated by Venerable Yap Gyadrol Tempa Gyatso Lama of Pemayangtse in presence of U-Dor-Choe Sum of all the premier monasteries and representatives of the Enchey Monastery.

During the meeting the monk body passed several resolutions on encroachment of monastic estates in the State following enactment of Municipal Act of 2007. It also noted with regret that there were no reservation of seats for Bhutia-Lepchas in the panchayat polls in the State. The lamas have also demanded panchayat system for the Sangha.

A resolution for “equal treatment” of all the monastic schools at par with the government schools was also passed during the meeting.

The monk body has also urged the Planning Commission of India for development fund for the monk body and the Sangha constituency in the State. It also wants the concerned authorities to seek advice from the monk body before undertaking any developmental activities which may be harmful for the preservation of Sikkim’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

The lamas urged senior lamas of the six premier monasteries to lead, guide and unite the monastic body in the State on various challenges it faced.

Editorial

PRESSURE TACTICS

“Drone Attack Must Stop”

Pakistani cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan has paid his price for his stand against US drone attacks in Pakistan. On his way to New York from Canada Khan was taken off from the American Airlines plane and interrogated by US Immigration at Toronto Pearson International Airport in Canada on Friday. Khan was to speak at a fundraising dinner in Long Island City the same day. At around 3.35 p.m. on Friday Khan tweeted: “I was taken off from plane and interrogated by U.S. Immigration in Canada on my views on drones. My stance is known. Drone attacks must stop.” After an hour’s questioning Khan was allowed to board a later 4 p.m. flight to New York but he missed the fundraising lunch.

Khan, who is the founder of Pakistan‘s Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, took part earlier this month in a protest against U.S. drone strikes on his home turf. Toronto Sun columnist Tarek Fatah said Khan was likely interrogated because of groups protesting his entrance to the U.S. “They were concerned about anti-Americanism while he’s speaking over there,” Fatah said. The American Islamic Leadership Coalition from Phoenix, Ariz. wrote to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton earlier this week, pressuring her to revoke the U.S. visa granted to Khan because of his sympathetic views towards the Taliban.

Because of the missed flight Khan could not attend the fundraising lunch in New York which was so important for his party. He, however, seems determined to stick to his stand on US drones in Pakistan. Every politician must pay a price for the stand they take on behalf of their people. The US ought to note that Khan’s party is emerging as a major political force in Pakistan that would become a rallying point for democratic forces in the country whose main aim would be to safeguard the country’s interest while becoming a strong ally of the West.

 Buddhism is big business in today’s world

By Sonam Denzongpa

Sarnath, located 5 kms north of Varanasi, is where Buddha preached his first sermon.

It is very interesting to know that the Government of India rediscovers an affinity to Buddhism. This is made obvious by the fact that an "International Buddhist Conclave" was held in Varanasi from 29th September to 1st October 2012, jointly organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and state governments of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

This is not a typo. May be you haven't been aware of the latest evolutionary advancements in Indian society. Therefore, be it repeated in plain text: Buddhism isn't a subject of religious concern anymore; it's a business unit of tourism, nowadays.

Accordingly, the members of the delegation from Sikkim were not selected from among spiritual masters, rinpoches and khenpos of the countless monasteries and hermitages of the erstwhile Buddhist kingdom as, in fact, these gentlemen don't have a clue of modern and rewarding Buddhism. In order to prevent the conclave from unwanted contributions, the all-knowing State Government chose the delegation to be led by the Additional Secretary, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department – probably an allusion to the flying yogis of ancient times -, with a Trekking Officer, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, and some tour operators as additional members. Finally, two deputies from the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology as well as a cultural troupe of the Cultural Affairs and Heritage Department made up for an authentic touch.

Meanwhile, you certainly got it: The conclave was not about realizing the Buddha's teachings, it was about marketing Buddhism.

Reports proudly mention that even Myanmar, undisputedly a leading nation in the field of nonviolence and compassion for the last 50 years, was impressed by a presentation of the achievements made in Sikkim.

An expert group on Buddhism deputed by the People's Liberation Army of the PRC was to attend the conclave as well, However, due to the latest irritations at Nathula, the delegation did not reach Varanasi in time. According to unconfirmed reports, the high command of the PLA considers to provide monks and devotees at the Jokhang temple in Lhasa with the blessings of an additional session of re-education instead.

The Gangtok administration is confident that the findings of the conclave, if implemented properly, will generate considerable profit in the near future. For, as tiresome as the Buddhists with their old-fashioned concepts of spirituality, morality and honesty may be, one can't deny the virtue that their stuff, generally, is highly decorative.

Therefore, new varieties of Buddhist articles and services may hit the high street soon, developed especially for visitors on a Buddhist trail and, ideally, combined with a meaningless but all the same well established label:Organic prayer flags from Yuksom,

green Malas from Tholung, purest bottled water - labelled “Bum Chu“ - from Tashiding,

sustainable Pujas from Pemayangtse ...

Unheard-of opportunities may rise with the establishment of Sikkim as a scuba diver’s paradise offering valleys flooded by hydro electric plants for treasure hunt.  An unknown number of hidden Buddhist treasures lying underwater will present the ultimate incentive for extreme athletes going after singular achievements.

The title of “First Stratospheric Skydiver” has been taken recently, however, the one of a “First Aquatic Terton ever” is still to be caught.

Needless to mention that such personalities are willing to disburse enormous amounts for a prospective flattery to their ego, funds that will, in turn, be reinvested for the collective good of the average citizen of Sikkim, of course. (Sonam Denzongpa is a MA student, Department of Philosophy and Religion, B.H.U., Varanasi)

Rhenock teachers felicitated for being conferred national, state awards

Dalapchand, Oct 26: Mulukey Junior High School, Under HRDD, Rhenock BAC, East Sikkim, felicitated the school’s Ex Headmaster Amrit Thakuri for being conferred National Award 2011 by President of India Pranab Mukherjee on  September 5, 2012.

 Two more State awardees Dhurba Basista, Headmaster Reshi Primary School, East and H.P Rawat, TGT (M), Chujachen Sr. Sec. School, East District, were also felicitated at a special function held at the school last week.

Principal, DIET Geyzing T.B. Chettri was present as the Chief Guest, Assistant Director, HRDD, BAC Regu, Chador Bhutia and Tshering Sherpa AEO, HRDD BAC Rhenock as the Guest of Honour and awardees Amrit Thakuri, Dhurba Basista and H.P. Rawat as the Special Guest. 

Retd. HM GP Adhikari, Bhuwan Giri, Headmaster Lower Bering PS, K.P. Dawari Coordinator Regu BAC , Ex Panchayats, SMC members , Headmaster, Teachers, students and guardians of Mulukey JHS, attended the programme.

The Chief Guest in his speech said those who received such “prestigious award” are a “source of inspiration” and complemented the work done by the staff and students of Mulukey Junior High School.

TNA wins RBI quiz contest, to represent Sikkim in New Delhi next month

Gangtok, Oct 26: Tashi Namgyal Academy (TNA), which won The All India RBI Inter- School Quiz (RBIQ) held here on October 19 last week, will represent the State in the semi-final round in New Delhi next month.

The Quiz contest held in Gangtok was a part of an ongoing series of a National Level Quiz contest being held at 32 locations across India for school students in Classes IX to XII.

The quiz contest, organized by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Gangtok Office, was held here in the auditorium of Sikkim Institute of Medical Sciences, Sikkim Manipal University.

In an overwhelming response to the event 113 teams from 55 schools from all over the State participated in the Quiz. More than 100 students from different schools in and around Gangtok had also gathered to cheer up the participating teams.

Six teams qualified for the Quarter Final round.. Tashi Namgyal Academy, Palzor Namgyal Girls Senior Secondary School, Modern Secondary School, Sir Tashi Namgyal Senior Secondary School, Government Senior Secondary School, Rumtek and Government Senior Secondary School, Samdong made to the top six.

The teams were also accompanied by their school teachers. The event was witnessed by E. E. Karthak, GM O-i-C, Gangtok, other officers of Gangtok Office and branch managers from various banks in Sikkim.

S. R Patnaik, DGM, HRMD, Central Office, Mumbai, was also present at the function, whose chief guest was K. T. Gyaltsen, Speaker, Sikkim State Legislative Assembly.

CM’s health camp held in Soreong

Soreong, Oct 26: A daylong Chief Minister's comprehensive annual and total check up for  healthy Sikkim (CATCH)  was held here last weekend at Raigaon under in west Sikkim

The CATCH camp was headed by Dr Narendra Gurung medical officer  (MO )from  Soreong primary health centre (PHC) and Dr Menuka Tamang (dental specialist) from Soreong PHC,

Local NGOs, volunteers and  teachers also participated in the successful holding of the camp.

The scheme is being introduced to provide a systemic and comprehensive health checkup to citizens of the State.

 “So far we have conducted 20 camps in last one and half month and have covered 6,740 people,” Gurung said. The total population under Soreong PHC is 28,202.

Bhutia body demands panel on religious sites in Pathing-Machong

Gangtok, Oct 26: The National Sikkimese Bhutia Organisation (NASBO) has urged the Ecclesiastical Department of the State Government to form a committee to look into the implications of mushrooming of factories and industries on sacred Buddhist sites in Pathing-Machong in east Sikkim.

NASBO President Sonam Lama Kaloen said these religious sites are under the Machong monastic authority. He said NASBO wants the authorities to take “sufficient action to ensure preservation of all the sacred sites” in the area and “dispel all the apprehensions of the local monks.”

NASBO has also urged the policy-makers in the State to “unfailingly address” the religious aspects of the various projects in the State and their implications before planning any kind of developmental activities with a view to preserving the religious heritage of Sikkim.

SIKKIM OBSERVER Oct 20, 2012

Hermonites felicitate Chief Justice of India

CJI to visit Darjeeling for Mt. Hermon School function on Nov 24

Senior Sikkim lawyer and Hermonite Udai P. Sharma felicitating Chief Justice of India Hermonite Justice Altamas Kabir in New Delhi on October 6, 2012. Also present at the function were (L to R) Mahesh Singh, Jigme N Kazi, Krishna Goenka and Karan Anand.

Gangtok, Oct 19: A delegation of Sikkim and Delhi Hermonites called on Chief Justice of India Justice Altamas Kabir at his residence in New Delhi on October 6.

During his hour-long chat with fellow Hermonites, alumni of Mt. Hermon School, Darjeeling, the CJI confirmed that he would be coming for the school’s annual Speech Day on November 24 next month. Justice Kabir, who was sworn in as the new CJI here on September 29, fondly recollected his school days at Mt. Hermon in mid-fifties.

The Hermonites called on the CJI to felicitate him for heading the country’s judiciary as the CJI. Sikkim Hermonites Association President Karma Bhutia, also Secretary of Sports Department, had sought the appointment with the CJI to felicitate him.

Two members of Sikkim Hermonites Association (SHA), Udai P. Sharma and Jigme N Kazi, were part of the eight-member delegation who met the Chief Justice.

The Delhi Hermonites Association (DHA) were represented by Mahesh Singh, Krishna Goenka and his daughter Ratika Goenka – also a Hermonite,  Karan Anand,  Anita (Adhikari) Sawhney and Shibesh Singh.

More than 150 Hermonites have confirmed their participation during the week-long reunions in Darjeeling in the third week of next month. “We are going to have a good time. At least 40 1979 batch will be present in Darjeeling for the reunion,” said Thinley Gyari, a Delhi-based Hermonite, in New Delhi.

Alumni from Bhutan, Nepal and also from abroad, including Miss P. Russell, an ex-teacher, will be present during the “grand reunion.”

Three Bangladeshis arrested for illegal entry

Gangtok, Oct 19: Three Bangladesh nationals have been arrested here for allegedly entering Sikkim without valid documents, the police said yesterday.

While one of the accused was arrested near the taxi stand outside the police headquarters, the other two were picked up at Rongpo in West Bengal-Sikkim border checkpost as they were trying to leave, PTI reported.

The duo checked into a hotel on Monday at around 7:30 pm and booked two rooms. The next day, the police moved in but they had already absconded, officials said.

Two laptop computers, an iPOD, flashdrivers, phones and modems were seized from the hotel room.

Sources inform that the three had initially given false addresses but broke down under interrogation and revealed their identity.

Sources said that while Md Islam is from Mohammadpur in Dhaka, Md Atik Rahman from Charadi village in Barisal district and Mir Ali is from village Badra police station of Satkhira in Bangladesh.

SIKKIM’S RINCHEN DOMLA IS MISS HIMALAYA 2012

Dharamsala, Oct 19: Twenty-three-year-old Rinchen Dolma from Sikkim was crowned the Miss Himalaya 2012 at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts in McLeod Ganj on Saturday night. Dolma, a final-year college student from Chandigarh, was determined the winner among the five contestants by a panel of three judges.

After the crowning, Dolma said, “Goals are brain work and foot work; dreams are heart work.”

“I have always followed my dream. Today I am feeling proud and honoured to achieve the title Miss Himalaya 2012. I want to thank my family who were always there to support me to overcome every hurdle in life. I would also like to thank the Director  Lobsang Wangyal for giving us such a beautiful opportunity, Phayul website reported.

“Additionally, I would like to convey this message to all the youngsters that it is not only about winning or losing but it’s about gaining an unforgettable experience and meeting wonderful people.”

Dolma received Rs. one lakh in cash as the prize money. Rachna Dhiman from Kangra was declared the first runner-up. She received Rs.50,000, and Thinley Yangchen from Spiti, the second runner-up, received Rs. 25,000.

The show began with a performance of Snow Lion and Yak dance before a backdrop of a snow mountain range. The Director of the pageant introduced the idea and the mission of the Miss Himalaya Pageant event. Then a rich tribute was paid to the Tibetans who died for freedom of Tibet. A minute’s silence was also observed to express public support and solidarity with the people of Tibet.

The contestants then took to the stage for their Introduction round. This was followed by the presentation of the Traditional costume round. In the final Interview round, the judges asked different questions to the

Rs 7,000 crore lottery scam involves Sikkim, Bhutan

Kochi, Oct 19: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probing the multi-billion scam involving Santiago Martin, who distributed fake lotteries, has received data about the lottery published by the Sikkim Government. The CBI officials said that it would take more time for winding up the case investigation as they are yet to receive information from the Bhutan Government.

The CBI has received the details about the lotteries being published under the name of the Sikkim Government and the investigation in this regard will be completed within one month. The data on the number of lotteries released by the Sikkim Government has been obtained, sources said.

The serial number of the lotteries from Sikkim throws light on the fact that the majority of lotteries were printed illegally, The Indian Express reported.

The full picture of the scam will be available only after receiving data from the Bhutan government, said the CBI official. The CBI had been looking into the possibility of the involvement of the officials in Bhutan and Sikkim in the case. From the information received, the CBI officials revealed that they had not received the information about the involvement of the officials from these countries in the case. “A major chunk of the fake lotteries were from Bhutan, so we required the data from the Bhutan Government for completing the investigation,” the CBI official said.

CBI Kochi unit superintendent K Krishnakumar said that with the availability of data from the Bhutan Government, the crucial part of the investigation would be completed in two months. “The reason for the delay is because the data on the lottery published by the Bhutan government has not been released yet. But the talks with the Bhutan government is still on and we expect a positive response soon. Given the current development, we expect to reach the last part of the investigation by next month,” Krishnakumar said.

The CBI has registered a total of 32 cases in August 2011 pertaining to the lottery scams referred by the state of Kerala against lottery kingpin Santiago Martin. The cases related to lottery printing in 2005, 2008 and 2011 are under investigation. The CBI has submitted the FIR in the case at the Ernakulam Chief Judicial Magistrate. It is suspected that Santiago Martin and his allies garnered a profit of Rs 7,000 crore from the business in various states of the country.

FDI in retail sector will empower people:UPA

By Jigme N. Kazi

Gangtok, Oct 19: Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram said steps are being taken to get rid of the “stagnation” in the economy for greater economic growth. While urging the people not to fear foreign investment in India, Chidambaram said foreign direct investment (FDI) in retail sector will eliminate “middlemen” and help small traders and entrepreneurs.

Inaugurating the two-day Economic Editors’ Conference in New Delhi last Monday, the Minister said the media has a great role in moulding “public opinion” which influence “decision making.” He accepted the fact that India was not “immune” to the global economic slowdown. “India’s economy is challenged” and “uncertainty is affecting markets everywhere,” he said.

Union Minister of Communication and Information Technology Kapil Sibal pointed out that at the “heart of economy is people’s ability to innovate.” He said “faster communication system” was vital for development. “Instant communication is a great source of empowerment,” Sibal said.

The Minister said the foundation for fibre optic network needs to be laid for faster economic growth in the county and expressed the hope that this would be done by the end of next year. He said faster data outflow to people through wireless network “will help empower people…it will lead to faster delivery of public services.”

Union Railways & Highways Minister CP Joshi emphasized the need for “safety” and “modernization” for improving the country’s rail network. He said by 2017, Kashmir will be connected with the rest of the country with rail link.

Asked about the demand for replacement of the BRO by other national agencies in managing Sikkim’s national highways, Joshi said while there is such a recommendation by some states handing over the work to other agencies is “not possible.” However, “the problems will be addressed,” he said.

Union Minister for Agriculture Sharad Pawar said despite a “delayed monsoon there is no drop in food production” this year. He said India is the world’s second largest food producer and “FDI is good for farmers.” He emphasized the need for a stable policy on import and export of food items.

“If there is excess production we should be allowed to export and if there is a decline we should be allowed to import,” Pawar said.

Union Aviation Minister Ajit Singh said, “Earlier, flying was for the rich but now flying is for economic growth.” Referring to security of passengers, Singh said, “Indian aviation sector is second to none in the world as regards security.”

He pointed out that Pawan Hans, which runs helicopter services in the country, has been asked to cover the Buddhist circuit between Varanasi and Sarnath.

Singh said civil aviation is not only about airports and planes but also about manufacture of machinery and precision parts. “Earlier, our planes go to neighbouring countries for maintenance. This has to stop,” Singh said.

Stating that he is “at home with regional press,” Power and Corporate Affairs Minister V. Moily assured that the country would not face “grid failure” anymore. He said the power sector is not only involved in generation but also in distribution.

Officials of his Ministry pointed out that less power effects double digit growth by 2 per cent. They are confident that “power growth will trigger GDP growth.” It may be pointed out that India has the third largest reservoir of coal in the world.

Petroleum & Natural Gas Minister S. Jaipal Reddy talked about the “growing needs of a growing economy of a developing nation.” He said the cost of oil “globally has gone up and this had made a huge difference to situation.”

Referring to the high cost of LPG cylinders, Reddy said the price burden has now been “passed on to the consumers from the government.” He admitted that “marketing” LPG cylinders is a great problem in far-flung areas of the country such as states in the Northeast.

The annual Economic Editors’ Conference had the participation of 35 senior journalists and writers from across the country, according to Neelam Kapur, Principal Director General (M&C), Press Information Bureau (PIB). The Conference was organized by PIB and the Ministry of Finance.

Editorial

OCTOBER 18, 1979

When Sikkim Humbled India

The victory of Sikkim Parishad party in the Assembly polls in Sikkim in October 1979 is a reminder that if the Sikkimese people are united nothing is impossible. The Parishad, led by Nar Bahadur Bhandari, a Sikkimese patriot hailing from the majority Nepalese community, had the tacit backing of the Chogyal of Sikkim, Palden Thondup Namgyal, who was unceremoniously dethroned by anti-Sikkimese forces projecting themselves as ‘democrats’ in early 1975. Ever since the  Indian-backed phony revolution  for ‘democracy’ began in the former kingdom in early 1973, Bhandari and other nationalist leaders from all three ethnic communities – Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalese – struggled for seven long years to deliver justice to the Sikkimese people. Bhandari’s Parishad won 16 of the 32 seats in the Assembly and with the help of an independent candidate formed the government and ousted pro-India party led by LD Kazi from power. Significantly, the independent legislator was the Late Lachen Rinpoche, who won from the lone Sangha seat.

The rest of the seats in the Assembly were won by Ram Chandra Poudyal’s Congress (R) – 11 seats – and Nar Bahadur Khatiwada’s Prajatantra party – 4 seats. Poudyal won 11 seats mainly because he raised the demand for restoration of Assembly seats reserved for Sikkimese Nepalese in the Assembly, which were abolished in 1979. Kazi’s Sikkim Janata Party drew nil in the polls and Kazi himself lost from the Dzongu constituency in North Sikkim. While Bhandari’s party promised de-merger, Poudyal projected himself as a Nepali leader and focused on the seat issue. Unlike Khatiwada, Poudyal did not want merger but greater political power for the majority Nepalese. After the ‘merger’ in 1975 Khatiwada, too, revolted and said it was not the wishes of the Sikkimese people to merge its country with India. While the result of the Assembly polls in 1979 was hailed as victory of the Sikkimese people the fact that the Sikkimese people’s political leadership has failed to give justice to the people ever since is Sikkim’s greatest tragedy.

Sikkim: The gradual dilution of distinct identity

BHARAT BASNETT

      (L to R) Lepcha, Nepali and Bhutia.

The year 2012 has completed thirty-seven years of Sikkim being the twenty-second State of the Union of India. Within this period this erstwhile tiny Himalayan Kingdom, hitherto being a part of India, has witnessed much political scenario which is obviously akin to the milieu pervading all over the country. The very nonchalant behaviour of the little number of politicians in Sikkim now a part of history.

We have witnessed at least two political stalwarts in the last three decades who were unprecedentedly successful to achieve 100 % political mileage, obviously on the premise of promises, hopes and aspirations of the people in the state which are so imperative in context of Sikkim to maintain its uniqueness in the Indian mainstream. During the eighties, it was Nar Bahadur Bhandari who championed in maintaining his reign for three consecutive terms with absolute majority. He was followed by his own estranged MLA, Pawan Kumar Chamling, who has been in the power for four consecutive terms, needless to mention, with quite authoritative majority in the Assembly of the State.

Now coming to the main point, what has been and ought to be of utmost importance, apart from the financial developments and gains, in the State is the maintaining of its distinct political identity and ‘proper’ protection of the three ethnic communities, viz., socially, politically and economically. Why is such a special care necessary for the original people of Sikkim? It has a very simple reason.

The people, in general, of Sikkim may be considered ordinary, but not the three main ethnic communities, Bhutias, Lepchas and Nepalese, who inadvertently, by virtue of merger, have become the citizens of the Republic of India, twenty-eight years late, therefore, becoming twenty-eight years back-ward in the Indian main-stream.

Then the population of Sikkim was to the tune of two and a quarter lacs.  Therefore, it was unanimously agreed and understood in between the Centre and the Sikkim State for having created special provisions chiefly targeting to provide safeguard the ethnic communities of Sikkim, of which Late Chogyal Palden Thendup Namgyal, the then King of Sikkim, was also a party to the testimonials of these logistics or paraphernalia for the protection were (1). May 8 Tripartite Agreement of 1973 (2).  Special Constitutional Provision of 371 (F), and the like.

Our so-called guardian politicians never baffle in making promises for the protection of the interests of the original and genuine Sikkimese people before assuming the position in Mintokgang. However, once assuming the seat of governance, the ephemeral charm of money and inebriated by power, the lofty deliberations and promises during the election campaigns are thrown into the back-burner. Yet, the original Sikkimese people do not falter in keeping hopes with the politician one after the other. Here the intriguing point is – are the people of Sikkim always gullible or does the psyche of the politician always tumble once they come to power? The results of these kinds of lackadaisical attitudes of politicians of Sikkim and the Central Government have resulted in fast eroding of the genuine commitment upheld in the agreements mentioned above.

As a chronological study in the context of the political developments in Sikkim, the late L.D Kazi, the first Chief Minister of Sikkim, commonly known as the merger-hero, fought election in 1974 on the basis of the arrangement of complete reservation of seats for the ethnic communities of Sikkim comprising of Bhutia, Lepach and Nepali. Up until then, there was no such nomenclature or provision as ST, Scheduled Tribe, in Sikkim. The representation of the Bhutias and Lepchas used to take place under B.L. seats, the literal meaning being Bhutias and Lepchas; besides, the Sangha seat for the Buddhist Monks of Sikkim. Subsequent upon the merger of Sikkim in the Union of India in 1975, the general election of Sikkim was to be held in the year 1979, directly under the Election Commission of India, as the twenty-second State. Therefore, the ensuing election of 1979 was to contradict on the basis of the prevailing Sikkim’s Election Rule and the provision of the Election Commission of India. As a result, the government of India quickly proclaimed the ‘Schedule 1978’ which comprised to define the Scheduled Tribe of Sikkim as Lepcha and Bhutia. The term ‘Bhutia’ comprising of Dukpa, Tibetan, Yalmo, Kagatay, Dothapa, Sherpa and Bhutia itself, thereby the identity of Bhutias and Lepchas of Sikkim firmly established. Here, the matter to understand very seriously and subtly is the term “BL” which is exclusively for the State of Sikkim that does not upheld the definition of S.T. in general.

R.C. Poudyal, a minister in the L. D. Kazi Cabinet, had sued in the Supreme Court of India challenging the status of the provision of B.L. Seats and the Sangha Seat. On the contrary to the pleas of R.C. Poudyal the Supreme Court of India upheld the status of B.L. seat reservation and the Sangha seat thereby protecting the special provisions provided to the Sikkim state in accordance to the 8th May Agreement 1973 and the provision of 371(F) of the constitution of India.

Now the agenda at present in question is that the ensuing Panchayat Election of Sikkim State 2012, to be held on November 3, 2012, has notified S.T. in general whereas the special provision of BL has been categorically ignored. This subtle development provides enough room for apprehension for the Bhutia-Lepcha community in the State. This sudden change in the arrangement ignores the fundamental protection of BL, whereas opens the clear passage for other S.T. category of India in general, not withstanding the S.T. of only Sikkim.

Now this is not a question of sole protection of the BL community of Sikkim but the very fundamental premises of the special provisions enacted for the protection and safeguard of the three ethnic communities of Sikkim who have become the citizens of India after the merger.

Because of the easy-going attitude of the political leaders and the public in general of Sikkim, the Nepalese of Sikkimese origin has lost deceitfully their political rights in terms of seat reservation. Here it is the time to be concerned for the BL of Sikkim also not to be on the path of losing such political rights in the days to come. Here the BL seat in question should be taken not only as a mere electoral agenda but it glorifies the political heritage of Sikkim within Indian Union, which now is at stake. Let us not forget that during the  reign of Kazi we lost the reservation of Nepalese seats, way back in 1979. Now in the fourth term of Chamling, we are in the process of eliminating BL seat. Now is it not time for us to contemplate seriously and take judicious steps before it is too late? (Bharat Basnett is the Convenor of Sikkim Solidarity Forum)

Eye camp held in Kewzing, cataract camp in Namchi in Nov

Kewzing, Oct 19: An awareness-cum-technical camp on eyesight was held here last week on the occasion of World Eye Sight Day.

Organized by National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) and Namchi District Hospital Wing in collaboration with Mother NGO Drishti, Namchi, the camp was held at the premises of Kewzing Senior Secondary School, South Sikkim.

During the camp, Dr. Twinkey Bhutia, Eye Specialist of Namchi District Hospital, screened few locals detected with cataract and the students from class I to V of the said school. The locals were screened for refractive error, an IPR release said.

Dr. Bhutia also gave a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation on various eye diseases and its care.

Earlier, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of South District Dr. Bimal Rai in his address talked about the importance of healthy and quality life. He also highlighted on the importance of eye and its care.  Dr. Rai urged the gathering to take utmost care of ones eyes and avoid any kind of self-medication and treatment incase of any problem in eye or its sight, but visit the specialist immediately.

Dr. Rai also informed that Namchi District Hospital will be holding 3 days cataract camp from November 22, where the patients detected with cataract will be operated and treated for free.

He said that till November 7 all cataract patients of South District will be screened and they will also be given the facility of free operation during this camp.

Police seize sale of broiler eggs

Gangtok, Oct 19: Sadar Police on Monday evening seized twenty one cartons of broiler eggs being illegally sold from a shop at Lall bazaar in Gangtok.

According to the police, based on the source information the search was carried out after which the eggs were recovered from the grocery shop of one Yogendra Prasad.

Police has handed over the seized eggs to the senior inspector of Voluntary Health Association of Sikkim which was later disposed.

As per the government notification importing of chicken or any kind of poultry products in Sikkim from outside State is banned.

Prasad has been fined.

SNPP to support ex-MP on issues

Gangtok, Oct 19: The Sikkim National People’s Party (SNPP) President Biraj Adhikari expressed concern on the gradual dilution of Sikkim’s special status as provided under Article 371F of the Constitution.

Adhikari said his party members recently discussed the concern expressed by the State’s former Lok Sabha MP Nakul Das Rai over the deteriorating law and order situation in the State and the growing influx into the State.

Adhikari said his party will support Rai’s Concerned Society of Sikkim to create awareness on these issues among the people. Rai is the Convenor of the Society.

Adhikari in a press statement said his party was boycotting the ensuing panchayat polls as it is against party-based panchayat polls in the State.

Four-legged chicken living normally in Kitam village

Gangtok, Oct 19: A rare four-legged chicken was hatched in Kitam village in the State.

The bird has two normal front legs while a pair of limb-type bough suspended behind, ANI reported.

According to veterinary expert Arjun Adhikari there is no definite reason behind the deformity and could be operated.

"Polymelia is basically a genetic deformity. It happens during development of embryo and sometimes not only in chicks but other animals also this happens and it's not a surprising thing but it happens very rarely," said Adhikari.

The rare four-legged chicken was hatched five months ago and has been living a normal life like other chickens.

"If it a major vital organ, it needs a major surgery otherwise limps and all we can take out with minor surgery and they can survive for their normal life," Adhikari added.

Rotary Club holds meet on rural employment schemes

Gangtok, Oct 19: Sandeep Tambe, Special Secretary, RM&DD, said under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act 65% of rural households in the State have been provided employment to the tune of 80 days which translates annually to about Rs. 10,000 per household.

 During his presentation of the scheme at a function of the Rotary Club of Gangtok recently, Tambe claimed that the implemention of the scheme not only created “durable assets” in the villages but led to income generation among the rural people, a release of the Club said.

“The assets created in the village relate to minor irrigation channels, torrent (jhora) training works, school playgrounds, village footpaths, horticulture and pasture development, land terracing etc. Other than providing employment, the Scheme has been able to create durable assets related to income generation in the villages,” the release said.

Sikkim teachers, students attend green meet in Hyderabad

Gangtok, Oct 19: Two teachers and three students from the State participated in last week’s “Young India for Biodiversity” held in Hyderabad during the 11th Conference of Parties (COP11) to the Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD).

The Sikkim delegation of National Green Corps (NGC) programme comprising of two teachers, D. Biswas and D. Dong and three students from Deorali Girls Sr. Secondary School – Ongmu Lepcha, Eden Bhutia and Tseten Tamang – have  returned after participating in the event.

 Participated by about 15,000 delegates from over 185 countries and teachers and students across the country, the green school model of Deorali School was largely appreciated as the effective environment management system at school level, an IPR release said.

 The model highlighted school’s effective and sustainable practices over natural resources like water, air, land and also energy conservation and waste management. The school also made video and power-point presentation in the gathering, highlighting several green initiatives of Sikkim.

For its green school practices, Deorali Girls SSS had also been conferred as one of the best green schools of the nation by Centre for Science and Environment, a New Delhi based NGO during March 2012.

FOOTBALL

Sikkim’s Lako Phuti Bhutia in Team India

Gangtok, Oct 19:  Lako Phuti Bhutia has become the fourth international woman football player from Sikkim, after Pushpa Chhetri,  Anuradha Chhetri &  Nima Lhamu Bhutia. 

Lako is the member of India U-19 National Women Team, which is to participate in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) championship to be held in Malaysia.  After attending the coaching camp at Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat for one month, they will leave from Mumbai to Malaysia on October 17, according to Menla Ethenpa, General Secretary of Sikkim Football Association (SFA).

The Indian team will play two matches in the qualifying round. On October 20, they will play against Bangladesh and on October 24 they will play against Uzbekistan.  Lako hails from a remote village of Sribadam, West Sikkim, and is the daughter of Mikchen Bhutia and Late Pem Lhamu Bhutia.

Briefing the media, Ethenpa said SFA is very happy with her performances in the international arena. Before her departure to Mumbai enroute to Malaysia, Lako thanked the officials of the SFA, including the President, BK Roka, and her coach Palden Bhutia, for giving her the opportunity to represent the country.