SIKKIM OBSERVER Saturday   April 6-12,  2013    

Dalai Lama hopeful for peace with China under Xi

Dharamshala, April 5: His Holiness the Dalai Lama said the newly-elected Chinese President Xi Jinping represents a positive change in China. He is hopeful of a new era of reconciliation and peace with Beijing and its new leadership.

This disclosure was made at Salugara in North Bengal recently where the Tibetan spiritual leader gave religious teachings, Tibet Post reported.

Replying to media queries after his three-day teachings, the Dalai Lama said he knew Xi’s father.

Stating that change will come to China, the Nobel Laureate added it would not come immediately but “it may happen soon.”

Speaking to members of the Tibetan community, His Holiness explained that it is now almost two years since he devolved his political responsibilities to the elected Tibetan leadership. Not only has he himself retired, but he has also brought an end to the involvement of the Dalai Lamas in the political affairs of Tibet, a role that began with the Fifth Dalai Lama nearly four hundred years ago.

Bongthings connected to worship of Sikkim’s Guardian Deities to be honoured

Gangtok, April 5: Two Lepcha Bongthings (priests) – one alive and the other who passed away in 2011 – will be felicitated by the Tsuklakhang Trust here on Sunday for their long services to the people of Sikkim. The two and their ancestors have been performing the annual Pang Lhabsol pujas to the Supreme Guardian Deities of Sikkim – Khangchendzonga and Yabdu – for a long time.

Late Ren Samdrup Taso Lepcha and Ren Pem Tshering Lepcha’s ancestors have been performing the annual rituals for generations, according to the Trust.

Late Ren Samdrup Taso Lepcha, who passed away on October 29, 2011, was the son of late Ren Yangkyok Lepcha and late Renyu Champi Lepcha from Nung, located in Tingvong village, Dzongu, North Sikkim. He was better known as Nung Taso or the Kongchen Bongthing. He belonged to an ancient lineage of powerful Lepcha shamans who are the sole keepers of the ritual knowledge of the sacred Kongchen ritual.

Ren Pem Tshering Lepcha’s ancestors have been responsible for performing rituals in honour of Yabdü, the guardian deity protecting Sikkim’s southern gate, for over two and half centuries. 
He is the son of late Ren Pembo Lepcha and late Angu Lepcha of Chegra Busty, located above Teesta Bazaar in West Bengal. He descends from a line of Bongthings spanning more than forty generations, the Trust said.

The felicitation is “in recognition of the selfless service and contribution made towards preserving the ageless tradition of the unique Sikkimese festival of Pang Lhabsol,” and also to “offer good wishes and sincere prayers for his descendents long and healthy lives and perpetuation of their ritual lineage.”

The felicitation function will begin here at the Tsuklakhang Monastery premises on April 7 (Sunday) at 9.30 a.m.

All, including the media, have been invited by the Tsuklakhang Trust to witness this unique and auspicious occasion.

Sribadam sisters in national football team

(L to R) Lako Phuti Bhutia, Coach Palden Bhutia and Nima Lhamu Bhutia (pix: sikkimexpress)

Gangtok, April 5: Two sisters from Sikkim’s remote village of Sribadam in West Sikkim – Lako Phuti Bhutia and Nima Lhamu Bhutia – have made it to women’s national football team.

The two have been short-listed for the Senior Women’s National Football Coaching camp in Pune (Maharashtra), which began on Monday, according to Sikkim Football Association (SFA) General Secretary Menla Ethenpa.

Unfortunately, due to “personal reasons” Nima Lhamu could not make it to the training camp which is expected to end on May 10 next month. Lako, who is participating in the camp, has thanked the SFA and her Mangalbaria Football Academy coach Palden Bhutia for giving her the opportunity to represent the State at the national level. The two sisters are the daughters of Mikchen Bhutia and Late Pem Lhamu Bhutia of Sribadam.

The coaching camp will train the team members for preparation of Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Womens Asia Cup Qualifiyer’s Round, SFA said.

Thank you, Ranbir: United Sikkim

Gangtok, April 5: After Bollywood superstar had agreed to promote Bhaichung Bhutia co-owned United Sikkim FC, USFC owners released a statement in its official facebook page thanking Ranbir Kapoor. The statement is as follows -

“United Sikkim FC owners, FidelisWorld and Bhaichung Bhutia, extend their gratitude and thanks to Ranbir Kapoor for his generous acceptance to be the brand and goodwill ambassador for United Sikkim FC.”

It added, “The United Sikkim FC warmly welcomes Ranbir Kapoor into the United Sikkim family and shares their delight in having a genuine football lover and an achiever like Ranbir Kapoor as the club’s ambassador. His international appeal and acceptance as a global youth icon and celebrity would definitely go a long way in promoting United Sikkim FC among his millions of fans, both within and outside India.

United Sikkim FC players and officials are also grateful to Ranbir Kapoor for becoming their ambassador. We thank Ranbir Kapoor for his selfless approach to promote us and we are encouraged by his gesture.”

Bhaichung Bhutia, co-owner of the Sikkim based club was ecstatic over the development. “We are proud to unveil Ranbir Kapoor as our brand ambassador. We have known each other for quite some time. He is a keen follower of football,” said Bhaichung to The Times of India on Tuesday.

CHOGYAL WANGCHUK NAMGYAL

On his 60^th birthday, Sikkimese want him to come back home

Gangtok, April 5: Wangchuk Namgyal, the 13^th Chogyal of Sikkim, turned 60 on Monday (April 1).On this ‘auspicious occasion’, the National Sikkimese Bhutia Organisation (NASBO), expressed its greetings and long life to the Chogyal, who has dedicated his life to religious and spiritual activities.

“On the auspicious occasion of the 60th Birthday of His Majesty, the 13th Miwang Denjong Chogyal Wangchuk Tenzing Namgyal, this organization expresses its greetings to all the Sikkimese people,” NASBO President Sonam Lama Kaloen said in a press statement.

“This organization shall be holding prayer meetings wishing for the long life of His Majesty as also in anticipation that His Majesty would soon resume back to his seat at Gangtok Palace…,” the statement said.

Prince Wangchuk, as he was known then, was crowned the 13^th Chogyal on February 19, 1982. It was on this day that his father Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal was cremated at a historic event when elected members of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly led by former chief minister BB Gurung offered khadas and acknowledged Wangchuk as the next Chogyal.

 Though Sikkim’s Namgyal dynasty traces its origin in the former kingdom to the 13^th century it effectively ruled Sikkim from 1642 to 1975, when Sikkim became the 22^nd State of the Indian Union amidst allegation that India had annexed Sikkim.

Meanwhile, NASBO yesterday celebrated the 90th official birthday of the 12th Denjong Chogyal Palden Thondub Namgyal.

NASBO members offered khadas to the portrait of the Chogyal during a ceremony and acknowledged the former Chogyal’s “bold stand” during 1973-1975 when the former kingdom faced a difficult period.

Editorial

LEVEL PLAYING FIELD

For Free And Fair Polls

If Nepal’s controversial move to hold elections under the supervision of a former supreme court chief justice as caretaker prime minister succeeds India ought to re-think of hold national and state elections under a similar system. Former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf, who has just returned to his country after a four-year self-imposed exile, wants the general elections in his country to be held under army supervision. He says there would be law and order problem if elections are held under the present political dispensation. In India, people, by and large, are fearful of misuse of power and show of money power by the ruling elite during elections. They want a level playing field for a free and fair polls. One writer rightly said: “In many regimes, democratic competition is undermined less by fraud or repression than by unequal access to resources, media, and state institutions. When opposition are denied access to finance and mass media, their ability to compete in elections—and survive between elections—is often impaired.”

Much the same feeling persists in India’s northeastern State of Sikkim. Since the 1974’s elections to the Sikkim Council, followed by the ‘special poll’ in 1975, the Sikkimese people have always feared and doubted the credibility of ‘elections.’ Communal passion was whipped when pro-Sikkim Sikkim National Party won majority of Council seats in 1973 elections, leading to Sikkim’s ‘merger’ with its protecting power in April 1975. The outcome of the Assembly polls in November 1989 and May 2004 are dark shadows in Sikkim’s quest for genuine democracy. The Sikkimese people are widely aware of misuse of ballot boxes and electronic voting machines by the establishment if polls are held under the prevailing system. As the next Assembly polls in Sikkim draw near the Sikkimese people have started saying that if polls are not held under President’s rule the ruling party Sikkim Democratic Front, which has been in power uninterruptedly for nearly two decades,  would stand to benefit. Unfortunately, India does not have the necessary law to hold elections under President’s rule. Our MPs and MLAs would not agree to such a law.

Sikkim govt-sponsored Everest expedition runs into trouble

March 2012 in Gangtok: Chief Minister Pawan Chamling with IHCAE Director GT Bhutia    

  (extreme right) and mountaineer Kazi Sherpa (left) of IHCAE, who represented Sikkim in the 2012 Everest Expedition. (file pix)

Gangtok, April 5: The Sikkim government- sponsored Everest expedition in Nepal has run into rough weather as mountaineering associations have demanded that the trek be postponed in order to ensure all climbers get equal opportunity for selection.

Seven mountaineers have been selected by the Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure and Ecotourism (IHCAE) for the Rs 1.4 crore expedition scheduled to commence from the first week of this month, PTI reported.

The IHCAE is a division under the Sikkim Tourism department and is based in Chemchey, South district.

Top mountaineering associations claim that qualified and veteran mountaineers were kept in the dark about the selection process, and thereby denied rightful opportunity to be considered by the IHCAE.

The mountaineering associations include Sikkim Mountaineering Association, Sikkim Amateur Mountaineering Association, Travel Agents Association of Sikkim and Sikkim Association of Adventure Tour Operators.

The associations argued that a pre-Everest expedition within Sikkim could have been conducted by the organisers to select the best mountaineers available in the State.

“An Everest expedition is like the Olympics for every mountaineer. While we thank the state government for providing an opportunity to the Sikkim climbers, we are sad to see that experienced and qualified mountaineers were kept in dark about the selection process. Even the mountaineering associations here came to know about the expedition only after seven members had been selected,” said Deepak Chhetri, the general secretary of the Sikkim Amateur Mountaineering Association.

IHCAE director G.T. Bhutia said it was his discretion to choose the men and women for the Everest climb. “Being the director, powers are bestowed on me to choose the people for the Everest expedition. The expedition has been approved after IHCAE placed a proposal before the government. As far as the selection is concerned, the seven mountaineers are from Sikkim who have undertaken many expeditions before. The question of postponement does not arise as bookings for logistic support and other formalities have already been completed.”

Chhetri alleged that the IHCAE had not provided an opportunity to all mountaineers in the State for selection for the Everest expedition and accused Bhutia of arbitrarily and clandestinely choosing the seven. “We fail to understand on what basis these climbers were selected when there are several others with superior experience,” he said.

States participate in 10-day handicraft exhibition

Gangtok, April 5: Neeru Sewa, Minister for Commerce and Industries Department inaugurated Gandhi Shilp Bazar 2012-13 at Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom complex here on Tuesday.

The 10-day exhibition-cum-sale of genuine handicrafts products has been sponsored by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.

A total number of 150 stalls have been allotted to artisans from all over India and local artisan from Sikkim, an IPR release said.

The participant’s states are Meghalaya, Mizoram, Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, West Bengal, Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir, Madya Pradesh, New Delhi, Gujarat, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

The exhibition is an annual feature of Sikkim Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd.  and is proving boon to artisans as their products are sold  at large numbers. It also provides big platform for artisans to have direct interaction with the buyers. The basic objective for organizing such kind of exhibition is to promote genuine handicrafts products.

Suspicious transactions in Sikkim, Goa casinos under intelligence scanner

New Delhi, April 5: The threat of terror financing is getting scarier and bigger by the day. In the last year, the country’s intelligence and law enforcement agencies have detected 1,444 suspicious cases of financial transactions allegedly used to exclusively fund terrorist activities. The cases have been forwarded to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-Ind), which has been tasked to probe money laundering and terrorist financing.

The FIU is examining suspicious transactions in businesses such as casinos in Sikkim and Goa. The agency received 12,655 suspicious reports last year from various casinos in the two states, which are now being analysed to probe the nature of the money. Memorandums of Understanding have been signed with 19 countries, including Mauritius, the Philippines, Australia, Canada, USA and Japan, to share related information for further exchange of information to counter online gaming, money laundering and terrorist financing.

“A casino sector assessment committee was constituted under the Director (FIU-Ind) which carried out a comprehensive review of the casino sector and has made several recommendations to the government for strengthening the anti-money laundering regulatory frame for this sector,” FIU report stated.

Apart from casinos, reports are also being received about attempts by some real estate agents and dealers in precious metals and stones, and other high value goods to create a non-breachable financial firewall for their illegal activities in terror funding.

PEOPLE & PLACES Sikkim

Saluting The Ritual Keepers of Sikkim’s Guardian Deities

The Tsuklakhang Trust (Sikkim) on Sunday (April 7, 2013) will honour Late Ren Samdrup Taso Lepcha of Dzongu, North Sikkim, and Ren Pem Tshering Lepcha of Teesta Bazaar, West Bengal, for their valued services in the performance of  the annual Pang Lhabsol rituals to Sikkim’s Guardian Deities – Khangchendzonga (Kongchen) and Yabdu – for a very long time.

“Their lineage is said to have performed the worship” of Sikkim’s protecting deities “since time immemorial,” read the Tsuklakhang Trust’s citation of the two Lepcha Bongthings (priests).

CITATION Highlights

Ren Samdrup Taso Lepcha

Late Ren Samdrup Taso Lepcha was the son of late Ren Yangkyok Lepcha and late Renyu Champi Lepcha from Nung, located in Tingvong village, Dzongu, North Sikkim. In the village and beyond he was better known as Nung Taso or the Kongchen Bongthing. He belonged to an ancient lineage of powerful Lepcha shamans who are the sole keepers of the ritual knowledge of the sacred Kongchen ritual. On the 29^th of October 2011, late Ren Samdrup Taso Lepcha passed away at the age of 84 in his home in Nung during a minor earthquake.

His clan, the Garkum tsum ptso, is associated with the powerful mountain deity Kongchen and traces its ancestry back to the soldiers (vik) of Kongchen. Their lineage is said to have performed the worship to this protective deity since time immemorial. The importance of this lineage for the appeasement of Kongchen and the worship of Sikkim as Beyul Demoshong was recognised by the Chogyals of Sikkim. Henceforth, the annual ritual to Kongchen and the other protective mountain deities of Sikkim became an integral part of the Sikkimese festival Pang Lhabsol.

Late Ren Samdrup Taso Lepcha assisted his father with the performances of the Kongchen ritual and learned the sacred knowledge of his clan. The elaborate ritual was then discontinued after 1975, but until today it is still held on a village level. Sadly, the sacred knowledge of this ritual has not been passed on to Late Ren Samdrup Taso Lepcha’s son, but the community bears hope that his grandson will take on the responsibility and carry on the ancient tradition of the Kongchen ritual.

Ren Pem Tshering Lepcha

Ren Pem Tshering Lepcha’s ancestors have been responsible for performing rituals in honour of Yabdü, the guardian deity protecting Sikkim’s southern gate, for over two and half centuries.  He is the son of late Ren Pembo Lepcha and late Angu Lepcha of Chegra Busty, located above Teesta Bazaar under Kurseong Sub-Division of West Bengal. He descends from a line of Bongthings spanning more than forty generations.

The ritual for Yabdü is an integral part of the sacred Pang Lhabsol celebration which is unique to Sikkim. It is observed at the end of August or early September, on the immediate Friday preceding the 15th day of the 7th month of the lunar calendar when Pang Lhabsol is observed at the Tsuklakhang in Gangtok.

Bongthing Ren Pem Tshering Lepcha has been holding the annual Pang Lhabsol ritual for Yabdü since 1962 following the demise of his late father. In olden days, the ritual used to be performed in a jungle above Kali Jhora and Teesta but this was discontinued at the time of his late grandfather due to attacks by tigers and other wild animals.

Born around 1935, Bongthing Ren Pem Tshering Lepcha is now close to eighty years old and, having no son, has been training his nephew Ren Tashi Lepcha for the past three years with the view of ensuring the ritual’s continuity. He leads a very humble and pious life dedicated to ritual and prayer for the benefit of Sikkim and all sentient beings. His personal association with the Palace and subsequently with The Tsuklakhang Trust spans more than fifty-one years. He is the only surviving Bongthing in the area who is not only a repository of the old culture, traditions and values but also one who still celebrates Sikkim as Beyul Demoshong, the sacred hidden land blessed by Guru Padmasambhava.

HIMALAYAN GUARDIAN     Wednesday April 3-9, 2013  

Tsuklakhang Trust to honour Lepcha Bongthings connected to Sikkim’s Guardian Deities

Gangtok, April 2: Two Lepcha Bongthing (priests) – one alive and the other who passed away in 2011 – will be felicitated by the Tsuklakhang Trust for their long services to the people of Sikkim. The two and their ancestors have been performing the annual Pang Lhabsol pujas to the Supreme Guardian Deities of Sikkim – Khangchendzonga and Yabdu – for a long time.

Late Ren Samdrup Taso Lepcha and Ren Pem Tshering Lepcha’s ancestors have been performing the annual rituals for generations, according to the Trust.

Late Ren Samdrup Taso Lepcha

Late Ren Samdrup Taso Lepcha was the son of late Ren Yangkyok Lepcha and late Renyu Champi Lepcha from Nung, located in Tingvong village, Dzongu, North Sikkim. He was better known as Nung Taso or the Kongchen Bongthing. He belonged to an ancient lineage of powerful Lepcha shamans who are the sole keepers of the ritual knowledge of the sacred Kongchen ritual. Ren Samdrup Taso Lepcha passed away at the age of 84 in his home in Nung during a minor earthquake on October 29, 2011.

His clan, the Garkum tsum ptso, is associated with the powerful mountain deity Kongchen and traces its ancestry back to the soldiers (vik) of Kongchen. Their lineage is said to have performed the worship to this protective deity since time immemorial, according to the Trust

The importance of this lineage for the appeasement of Kongchen and the worship of Sikkim as Beyul Demoshong was recognised by the Chogyals of Sikkim. Henceforth, the annual ritual to Kongchen and the other protective mountain deities of Sikkim became an integral part of the annual Sikkimese festival Pang Lhabsol held in the 7^th month of the lunar calendar.

The felicitation is “in recognition of the selfless service and contribution made towards preserving the ageless tradition of the unique Sikkimese festival of Pang Lhabsol,” and also to “offer good wishes and sincere prayers for his descendents long and healthy lives and perpetuation of their ritual lineage.” 

 Ren Pem Tshering Lepcha

Ren Pem Tshering Lepcha’s ancestors have been responsible for performing rituals in honour of Yabdü, the guardian deity protecting Sikkim’s southern gate, for over two and half centuries. 
He is the son of late Ren Pembo Lepcha and late Angu Lepcha of Chegra Busty, located above Teesta Bazaar under Kurseong Sub-Division of West Bengal. He descends from a line of Bongthings spanning more than forty generations, the Trust said.
The ritual for Yabdü forms part of the sacred Pang Lhabsol celebration which is unique to Sikkim. It is observed at the end of August or early September, on the immediate Friday preceding the 15^th day of the 7^th month of the lunar calendar when Pang Lhabsol is observed at the Tsuklakhang in Gangtok.

 Bongthing Ren Pem Tshering Lepcha has been holding the annual Pang Lhabsol ritual for Yabdü since 1962 following the demise of his late father. In olden days, the ritual used to be performed in a jungle above Kali Jhora and Teesta but this was discontinued at the time of his late grandfather due to attacks by tigers and other wild animals. 

Born around 1935, Bongthing Ren Pem Tshering Lepcha is now close to eighty years old and, having no son, has been training his nephew Ren Tashi Lepcha for the past three years with the view of ensuring the ritual’s continuity. He leads a very humble and pious life dedicated to ritual and prayer for the benefit of Sikkim and all sentient beings.

His personal association with the Palace and subsequently with The Tsuklakhang Trust spans more than fifty-one years. He is the only surviving Bongthing in the area who is not only a repository of the old culture, traditions and values but also one who still celebrates Sikkim as Beyul Demoshong, the sacred hidden land blessed by Guru Padmasambhava.

 The felicitation function will begin here at the Tsuklakhang Monastery premises on April 7 (Sunday) at 9.30 a.m.

All, including the media, have been invited by the Tsuklakhang Trust to witness this unique and auspicious occasion.

DNA study to observe vivacity of Uttarakhand’s Bhotiya tribe

In perhaps the first ever study of its kind, there is going to be a DNA study conducted on the Bhotiya tribals of Uttarakhand, as to what makes them so dynamic as to take the lead in studies and adorn top administrative and other positions as compared to the other tribes in this small mountain state.

It has been found that despite the topography constraints and also the non priority status given to education by the successive governments of Uttarakhand and earlier the neglect shown to the region by the Uttar Pradesh government, of which it was a part, the Bhotiyas, despite having a count of 36,438 only in this small mountain state have 80 per cent literacy.

The Bhotiyas, said to be ethno-linguistically Tibetan people, living in the trans-Himalayan region that divides India from China, made their presence in this part of the country almost centuries back, when they led a nomadic life traveling with their large flock of pack goats, sheep and ponies from the trade posts of Garotk and Gyanima in Tibet to the Gangetic plains.

The annual migration of their caravans took place along established trade routes, for the Bhotiyas were legendary traders and trans-Himalayan trade partnerships with nomadic Tibetan Khampas and Dokpas were formed and nurtured over generations until Chinese occupation of Tibet and subsequent 1962 Sino-Indian War, after which the trade stopped completely.

The Bhotiyas have made a number of success stories in this small mountain state and carved a niche for themselves in top administrative positions. The DNA test will start from the members of the scheduled tribe living in Pithoragarh district and will also cover those living in Chamoli and Uttarkashi districts. There are about 13 sub-sects among the Bhotiyas.

Other things that will also be studies are that despite having high intake of salt why do they not suffer from blood pressure and has the change from their old traditional nomadic way of living to high profile jobs brought any change in them.

Incidentally of the scheduled tribes found in Uttarakhand, while the Bhotiyas have an 80 per cent rate of literacy, the Tharus have 67 per cent, Jaunsaris 58.9 per cent, Bokshas 49.9 per cent and rajis 35.8 per cent. The literacy rate of the Bhotiyas happens to be six per cent more than the national literacy average. (Hill Post)

Editorial

NEPAL CRISIS

Elections May Be Delayed

The main objective of Nepal’s chief justice-turned-prime minister Khilraj Regmi’s job is to ensure that the general elections take place at the earliest so that an elected representative forms the government. This is a strange situation but as Nepal’s politicians were unable to do what they were supposed to do someone other than a politician had to be placed on top to see that petty politics do not come in the way of making democracy more meaningful to the people. Hopefully, Regmi will not repeat what a number of his predecessors did – and that is to remain in power as long as possible and forget the main reason for getting the top job.

It is to be noted that the new PM’s job is to head an ‘interim government’ and not to stay in power for too long. However, there are reports that the much anticipated election for a new Constituent Assembly in Nepal is likely to get delayed. The 11-point agreement among four major parties had proposed polls by June 21 but the interim election council led by Regmi is yet to announce election dates - more than two weeks after assuming charge. On Saturday, the Election Commission stated that possibility of holding polls within the June deadline is unlikely unless election-related amendments are made within the next few days. If polls are not held by June, before the onset of the monsoon season, it could get delayed by several more months. What next if even the head of judiciary fails to deliver?

POLITICAL SYSTEM OF BHUTAN: 1616-2013

The political system of Bhutan has evolved over time together with its tradition and culture. It has developed from a fragmented and a disoriented rule of the different regions by local chieftains, lords and clans into the parliamentary democracy we have in place today.

The first move towards a systematic scheme of governance came in 1616 with the arrival of Zhabdrung Nawang Namgyal from Tibet. He introduced the dual system of governance with the Je Khenpo as the spiritual head of the nation and the Desis, as the head of the temporal aspects.

But a major breakthrough came about in 1907 when the people unanimously enthroned Ugyen Wangchuck as the fist hereditary King of Bhutan. He was the man who had proven his mettle by banding together the different Dzongpons and Penlops (governors of fortress), ending centuries of strife and bringing much needed stability and peace to the country. Since then, the country has been ruled by successive monarchs of the Wangchuck dynasty.

In a move to ensure a more democratic governance of the country, the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck instituted the National Assembly (Tshogdu) in 1953. Every gewog has an elected member representing it in the National assembly. It became a platform where the people’s representatives enacted laws and discussed issues of national importance.

The establishment of the Royal Advisory Council (Lodoe Tshogde) in 1963 as a link between the king, council of ministers and the people was another move towards democratization. It also advised the king and the council of ministers on important issues and ensured that projects were implemented successfully.

The institution of Dzongkhag Yargay Tshogdu (District Development Assembly) in 1981 and Gewog Yargay Tshogchung (County Development Assembly) in 1991 by the Fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck was another move towards decentralization.

But the devolution of the power of the King in 1998 to the cabinet ministers was the highest form of decentralization. The King, thereafter, began to serve as the Head of the State while the government was managed by the Prime Minister.

In November 2001, on the advice of the Fourth king, a committee chaired by the Chief Justice of Bhutan, was formed to draft the constitution of Bhutan. The constitution was launched in 2008 and with it a parliamentary democracy introduced. The progression from Hereditary Monarchy to that of a Parliamentary Democracy has been a carefully managed process that culminated in 2008 when Bhutan held its first elections country wide. The Druk Phunsum Tshogpa was mandated by the people to head the new government with a major victory. Today with 45 elected members, Lyonchen Jigme Y Thinley steers the government with just two opposition members from the People’s Democratic Party.

The organs of the Bhutanese government comprise of the Legislature, Judiciary and the Executive. The ruling political party, the opposition and the National Council now forms the legislative body.

GJM, ABGL leaders, supporters join TMC

North Bengal Development Minister Goutam Deb

Darjeeling, April 2:  Two leaders of the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha and Akhil Bharatya Gorkha League along with their supporters on Sunday joined the Trinamool Congress which also held a public meeting at Darjeeling hills.

Prominent defectors to the TMC fold include N B Khawas of the GNLF who was a councillor, Manoj Dewan, former general secretary of the AIGL and J B Tamang, a GJM unit leader from Munda Khoti below Sonada in Darjeeling.

The joined Trinoomul Congress in presence of North Bengal Development Minister Goutam Deb.

Tamang said he would continue to work for the development of the Hills and he was "not opposed to the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration," PTI reported.

Dewan said more workers of the ABGL would join the Trinamool Congress. In his address, Deb said, "We are very happy to have these new friends among us. We hope others will come to the Trinamool Congress fold soon."

More than 50 supporters from various political parties, including Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) party, joined the TMC on Sunday. The induction comes ahead of the crucial panchayat election.

"This is the first political programme without our leader Mamata Banerjee in the Hills. Our message is that in democracy every political party has the right to organize its programme. We will not be intimidated in any way and will organize more programmes in other areas of the Hills," said Deb.

Deb spoke positively on the issue f converting Darjeeling Government College into a university and establishment of a medical and engineering college in Kurseong and Kalimpong respectively.

INTERVIEW Lhasang Tsering

“The Tibetan government-in-exile has forgotten our freedom struggle”

Interview with Lhasang Tsering, former president of Tibetan Youth Congress, and Rangzen activist on self-immolations of Tibetans in Tibet. (Translated from Tibetan by Sonam Gyatso, Library of Tibetan Works and Archives)

Tibet Times: What do you think are the main hopes and aspirations of the brave Tibetans who set themselves on fire inside Tibet?

Lhasang Tsering: Human beings, when faced with desperate situations, either kill others or kill themselves. Those Tibetans who set themselves to fire raised slogans calling for the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Tibet; some raised slogans about freedom in Tibet and there were also some who raised slogans for Tibet’s independence. In all, it is clear that Tibetans inside Tibet are not happy. These desperate actions makes it clear Tibetans are suffering under the brutal Chinese occupation and their intense desire for freedom is also clear. We, the Tibetans living in exile, must respect their aspirations. Particularly, the Tibetan Government-in-Exile must recognize this. Our government must respect the brave Tibetans who sacrificed their precious lives for the cause of Tibet.

Q: What would be the short-term and the ultimate impact on the Tibetan cause of these self-immolations? What is your personal view?

A: It is a huge loss for the family members and relatives of the brave Tibetan monks and nuns who set themselves on fire. They are no longer alive. However; it depends on us whether their actions will have a positive or negative result for Tibet and the Tibetan people. For example, if you hit others with just a single finger, rather than hurting others, you would be hurting yourself. However; if you hit with a firm, clenched fist with all five fingers joined in unison; it will hurt your opponent. I heard that some members’ in our community are debating whether these self-immolations are acts of violence. I feel really depressed and sad to hear such debates. People who circumambulate Tsuklagkhang and other holy sites kill insects by trampling on them. Can you refer to this as an act of violence? Their motive is spiritual accomplishment. It cannot be violence to sacrifice one’s life for the sake of protecting one’s country and one’s nation and to preserve our religion and culture. The real act of violence is being inflicted by the Chinese who oppress our people and create these desperate situations. Shirking from the responsibility to serve the Tibetan cause and failing to stand up to oppression and injustice is an act of violence and deceit.

Q: How do you define the present status of the Tibetan struggle for independence?

A: Considering the courage and dedication of Tibetans inside Tibet, the status of our struggle for independence is highly commendable and hopeful. However, the Tibetan Government-in-Exile has rendered our struggle directionless. Whether it is an individual or of a community; or even a nation; one must fulfill three conditions for a movement to succeed. Firstly; the aim of the struggle should be clear. Secondly; one must have the necessary confidence to achieve that goal. Thirdly; one must actively work to achieve that goal. Apart from merely stating that it is for the mutual benefit of Tibetans and Chinese, our present Middle Way Policy does not have clear aims and objectives. We do not have confidence because we fear that China is mighty and powerful. Apart from issuing statements or making speeches about our cause; in reality; in exile we do not have enough people who sincerely care about the Tibetan cause and no one actually leading an active struggle.

Q: Are you satisfied with official campaigns initiated by Kashag and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile to highlight the critical situation inside Tibet?

A: As I said earlier; besides merely refusing to listen to the voice of the general Tibetan people; the Kashag is doing nothing to resolve the issue of Tibet. Therefore; it is not a question of whether it satisfies me or not. I am left in dejection and hopelessness. The government is an organization to lead people. What the Tibetan Government needs to do is to lead the struggle for freedom. The Tibetan Government-in-Exile, based in Dharamshala, has forgotten our freedom struggle and yet it seems that it perceives itself as running a real government. This is not right. The roof above our heads and the soil under our feet do not belong to us. They all belong to others. Even the general public knows that a ‘mutually beneficial’ solution for resolving the Tibet-China issue is not practical and achievable. Even if it may be achievable, we must know that we don’t have time to wait for long. Thousands of Chinese are migrating into Tibet even at this very moment when I am being interviewed here. Yes; Time is running out on us.

Q: What responsibilities and what kind of movements we Tibetans in exile must initiate considering the critical situation inside Tibet? Could you please share your thoughts?

A: In exile, non-governmental organizations and ordinary Tibetans are making every possible effort towards our freedom struggle. However, these will not bring real, meaningful result, as they cannot influence the international community. We need a clear plan and a leader who can lead us and unite us all. Without such leadership, it would be like laying thousands of bricks in the wilderness. Such bricks scattered on the desert surface will not result in a house. There are many people who appreciate His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s decision to devolve his political power to an elected leader; but I absolutely do not consider it a positive step. For example; if there is a shepherd who, in the name of taking his sheep to a greener pastureland, herds them here and there, and finally leave the sheep in the middle of a vast desert telling them ‘now the authority is in your hands’, is the shepherd fulfilling his duty? Of course; democracy is important, but it is an internal matter of a free country. Is it worthwhile to argue about the shape and size of the house and the colour of the walls before you have the land to build the house? In my view democracy can wait; but not the struggle for freedom.

Q: All the people who immolated themselves are monks and nuns and we often say that our struggle is for the cause of Tibetan religion and culture, so what in your view are the responsibilities of the Tibetan reincarnated lamas belonging to different religious sects in exile?

A: I cannot speak about the views of Tibetans inside Tibet, but Tibetans in exile must have various opinions with regard to this matter. Some people are not able to express their views because of their faith and devotion. Personally, I think that I have put my best possible effort in leading movements and nurturing leaders for the cause of Tibet while I was working with Tibetan Youth Congress. What I want to say is that if [in our community] there are people who think there is a spiritual practice that is more precious and sacred than serving the happiness and wellbeing of one’s country and its people; then I request you not to live in the Tibetan community. Please do not take benefits from our community. I cannot accept a spiritual practitioner who seeks to achieve individual enlightenment and who works only for the personal benefit or for the next life without shouldering responsibility for Tibet and the Tibetan people. We Tibetans do not need such spiritual practitioners at this moment.

Q: After His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s devolution of political power to an elected leader, do you think we can see some change in our movement and the nature of our struggle?

A: His Holiness the Dalai Lama has been the Spiritual and Political head of Tibet for centuries. I cannot say for sure there could be a change in a day or two, or within the next few generations to come. On paper, it can be written that His Holiness the Dalai Lama has devolved his political authority to an elected leader. However; in the hearts and minds of Tibetan people it is only His Holiness the Dalai Lama who will remain as the Spiritual and Secular head of Tibet. When my body and mind separates from each other and when my flesh and blood spills out, even at that moment, my consciousness will regard His Holiness the Dalai Lama as my sole leader. [At this moment, Lhasang la took a pause and shed tears]. Once again I request His Holiness the Dalai Lama to reconsider his decision of devolving political authority when our freedom struggle needs him most because our nation is on the brink of death. The Tibetan people can change their clothes but how can we change our hearts?

Q: Do you see some hope that the Tibetan struggle [for autonomy] will gradually move on to struggle for Rangzen?

A: I am not a person who relies on empty hopes. If you ask me do I think should the struggle move on to Rangzen; in reality, I would say definitely I do. I was the one who openly expressed that it would be an impractical [solution] when His Holiness the Dalai Lama proposed the Middle Way Approach on 15 June 1987. At that time, there were Tibetans who even threatened to kill me. My children also faced problems in their school because of my position. I still keep the same political stand. I haven’t made the slightest change to it. I believe in truth and justice. I am not a person who only thinks about personal benefits. The Tibetan Government-in-Exile took a wrong position right from the beginning. There is no benefit in changing the driver if one is travelling on the wrong road. No matter how many times you change drivers, if your vehicle is going on the wrong road there is no change. First and foremost the Tibetan Government in Exile must change its course.

Q: What is your view on people who believe that we cannot have dialogues with the Chinese Government or receive international support if the Tibetans opt for Rangzen?

A: This is absolutely rubbish. They are ignorant about world politics. The policy of a state or nation is driven by its national interest. There is not a single nation in the world that frames their foreign policy by renouncing its own national interest for the sake of other nations. Between 1959 and 1965, the United Nations passed resolutions recognising Tibet’s right to self-determination. This happened when we were advocating Tibet’s independence. However; because of the spread of Communism in USSR and other countries, US and other western allies gave more focus on how to defeat Communism. As a result, Tibetan issue lost limelight then. After renouncing Rangzen as our official policy, we have not had a single nation that came up and extended meaningful support. Presently, as China is becoming more powerful, it naturally affects the interest of many other countries. For their own interests, not out of concern for Tibet, I am sure we will receive support from these countries if we take some clear actions. Isn’t it foolish to complain that one cannot get a sponsor for one’s child without first enrolling the child in school?

Q: Lhasang la, what is your expectation [from] and appeal to the Tibetans inside Tibet, especially Tibetans who set themselves on fire?

A: First of all, I would like to bend my knees to the ground in prostration before those valiant self-immolating sons and daughters of Tibet. At this present critical moment, we must prepare ourselves for a determined action. Even an old man like me has made preparations since long time back. I registered [the ownership of] my small bookshop and bank account in my wife’s name. We Tibetans must share our happiness and suffering together. Whether the loss of these lives benefits our cause or not will depend on the Tibetan Government-in-Exile and the officials working in the exile Tibetan community. I request our government to come up with a well-planned strategy and to take concrete step for our struggle for freedom if we really think Tibet’s situation is critical and feel solidarity with those brave Tibetans who have already given up their lives by setting themselves ablaze. It is not of much use for ordinary Tibetans to go and protest in front of the Chinese embassy if our government is not willing to lead us from the front. The Tibetan Government-in-Exile must lead the protests and demonstrations for our freedom! (Rangzen Alliance)

SIKKIM OBSERVER Saturday   March 30 – April 5,  2013    

Kerala’s Justice Kuriakose appointed new Sikkim High Court CJ

Gangtok, March 29: Justice Pius Chakkalavil Kuriakose is the new Chief Justice of the High Court of Sikkim. He was sworn in by Governor Balmiki Prasad Singh here at the Raj Bhavan yesterday.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by the Chief Minister Pawan Chamling, SLA Speaker KT Gyaltsen, Acting Chief Justice SP Wangdi, Cabinet members, Chief Secretary R. Ongmu and other officials and dignitaries.

Justice Kuriakose was appointed as Additional Judge of High Court of Kerela on September 9, 2002 and appointed as Permanent Judge of the High Court of Kerela on 2004.

The 62-year-old judge hails from Thripunithura in Ernakulam district of Kerala. He has replaced former Chief Justice of the High Court of Sikkim, Justice Permod Kohli, who was appointed as CJ on December 12, 2011. Justice Kohli retired on March 1 this month.

Kejriwal to support youth body, may visit Sikkim

 ASESEUA President Nawin Kiran (standing) speaking at Aam Admi Party meeting in Delhi recently where  Arvind Kejriwal (centre) is also present.

Gangtok, March 29: Aam Admi Party leader and social activist Arvind Kejriwal has assured “full support” to the issues pursued by All Sikkim Educated Self-Employed & Unemployed Association (ASESEUA). He has also accepted the Association’s invitation to visit the State.

This assurance has come even as activists of the Association participated in the various activities of the AAP in New Delhi recently, according to Association President Nawin Kiran.

“Our organisation is also in constant touch” with Kejriwal’s party and is also attending meetings conducted by the AAP, Kiran said in a press release.

“We congratulated him for the registration of his party and promised full support from our side for a noble cause he has been doing. And at the same time he has promised us full support for our cause,” Kiran said.

Presently, the ASESEUA team is stationed in Delhi and meeting “various national leaders both political and apolitical and appraising our grievances.”

Kiran said his team is also “being invited by various national organisations both political and apolitical for talks.”

According to Kiran, the Delhi trip was a “success” and Kejriwal has accepted the Association’s invitation to visit Sikkim.

“We will soon return home with an announcement for the people,” Kiran said. Meanwhile, the Association is all set to open its office in the State capital on April 4.

New Delhi: The health of Kejriwal, who is on the sixth day of his indefinite fast to protest against the "inflated" electricity and water bills in New Delhi, has started to deteriorate.

Party activists claim that Kejriwal's confidence is growing day by day due to the huge support that his agitation has been receiving from the residents of Delhi. AAP activists say that several people have joined the agitation and announced that they would fight with Kejriwal.

The party also claimed that 83,000 people have signed protest letters pledging not to pay the "inflated" power and water bills, taking the total to more than 2.69 lakh people. The signed letter will be delivered to Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit shortly.

Be positive, says Dalai Lama

Sikkim in Buddhist pilgrimage map of the world: Chamling

The Dalai Lama (centre) during the opening of Buddha Park in Rabongla, South Sikkim, on Monday.

Gangtok, March 29: With the opening of the Buddha Park in Rabongla, South Sikkim, on Monday by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Sikkim has been placed in the pilgrimage map of the world, Chief Minister Pawan Chamling said.

The Dalai Lama performed the consecration ceremony of the 137-feet tall Buddha statue at the park on Monday. Governor BP Singh, Speaker KT Gyaltsen, Chief Minister and Chief Secretary R. Ongmu witnessed the function amidst thousands of Buddhist devotees from all over the State and neighbouring areas.

The Tibetan spiritual leader said that the people of Sikkim who are peace loving and religious should continue to follow the path shown by Lord Buddha. He said the newly-opened park, known as Tathagata Tsal, should be a place of worship and pilgrimage.

The Chief Minister said the Buddha Park will become a centre for pilgrimage tourism in the State.

The Chief Minister highlighted that his government’s policy is based on Buddhist values and is committed to supporting the State’s various religions and inculcating positive values in the people. He hopes that this new Buddha statue complex, which incorporates a library and a study centre, will attract pilgrims from far and wide.

His Holiness expressed his greetings to the crowd and said: "I've come to consecrate this outstanding statue, which we did according to the rites of Vajrakilaya, because this locality has historical connections with that meditational deity.”

“The place itself is quiet, open and peaceful and the statue adds to the natural beauty of the landscape, which I hope will inspire an inner transformation within the pilgrims who come here," he added.

On March 26 His Holiness gave White Tara Long Life Empowerment, followed by the offering to him of prayers for his long life.

On his arrival here on the same day, the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama today advised students of Sikkim to be positive in attitude and create a positive "karma".

 Speaking to students at Manan Kendra here, the Dalai Lama said: "future of an individual depends on a community, and of a community depends on a society and of a society depends on nation”.

The Nobel Laureate left here on Wednesday morning. He last visited Sikkim on December 2010.

Editorial

THE ULTIMATE TEST

Kejriwal, Make A Noise In Sikkim

No central leader dares to come to Sikkim and face the truth to what is really happening in the former kingdom. Even national journalists prefer conducted tours of the State sponsored by the State Government. For obvious reasons the Centre pumps in enough money in Sikkim to keep the people perpetually drugged. Even if Arvind Kejriwal does not come to Sikkim the fact that he has reportedly accepted the invitation extended by a Sikkim youth body to visit Sikkim is enough to keep the establishment on its toes. It will go all out to woo the activists of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Even Kejriwal will not be spared. If he and his team get tested in Sikkim and come out clean then they are ready and fit for the battle ahead. So, Mr. Kejriwal, make a noise in Sikkim and prove your credentials.

Dipankar Chakrabarti: The unsung revolutionary

Dipankar Chakrabarti, founder-editor of socio-political magazine Aneek, condemned Sikkim's 'feudal' monarchy in his writings, languished in jail for two years and recently died in Kolkata

By Sunanda K Datta-Ray

A little-known hero of the Emergency died in Kolkata the other day. I was looking for Dipankar Chakrabarti, the 71-year-old founder-editor of Aneek, a socio-political magazine in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, when I was told he had just succumbed to cardiac arrest. This often happens to me — someone I am keen on meeting inconsiderately chooses to bid adieu to life just then. But that’s another story. What is saddening is that more people didn’t know of Chakrabarti.

Someone at a meeting of the Association of Corporate Advisers and Executives asked me recently to recount what he called my newspaper’s heroic deeds during the Emergency. The hall burst into applause when I replied that just as there were more dispossessed East Bengal zamindars in Kolkata than there were actual zamindars in pre-partition East Bengal, there were more Emergency heroes after the Emergency than existed then. Chakrabarti wasn’t among them. Neither was he one of the glitterati who hold high positions and trot the globe while flaunting their supposedly radical ideology.

He neither sought nor received attention. But he and a colleague Sukanta Raha, whose name I learnt only this week, were arrested under the Defence of India Rules for an editorial titled “India’s annexation of Sikkim” in Aneek’s April-May 1975 special edition. They languished in jail for two years after Berhampore’s additional sessions judge refused bail because the article “seems to be calculated to prejudice the minds of the people against the territorial integrity of the Union of India”.

Dipankar Chakrabarti

When I told my Sikkimese friend, Karma Topden, former Rajya Sabha member and India’s one-time ambassador to Mongolia, he asked why Chakrabarti had been singled out for a distinction denied to B G Verghese and me. “Verghese’s editorial, ‘Kanchenjunga, Here We Come’ in the Hindustan Times was very strong”, Karma said. “And you made Sikkim an international issue with your reports in The Observer in London, and your book, Smash and Grab: Annexation of Sikkim!”

I told Karma Marxists would probably attribute the different treatment to class justice … or injustice. I’d add class understanding. District officials are less sophisticated than their metropolitan counterparts who might have made allowance for revolutionary rhetoric. Although Chakrabarti thought Sikkim’s monarchy “feudal and reactionary”, it was “the sacred task of every progressive and socially conscious” Indian “to unite shoulder to shoulder with the freedom fighters of Sikkim, so as to take effective steps to defeat the common enemies of the people of these two countries”. The enemy was the “expansionist Indian ruling clique”.

Despite the clichés, one must respect someone, especially in the moffusil, who sustained for 48 years a magazine that covered, says a Bangladeshi admirer, Farooque Chowdhury, many aspects of modern and ancient society, politics, economics, the Moscow-Beijing rift, China’s Cultural Revolution, globalisation and the environment. Chakrabarti founded the People’s Book Society and the Association for Protection of Democratic Rights. He translated Chinese revolutionary opera and essays by Paul Sweezy, the Harvard economist who wroteDemand Under Conditions of Oligopoly in 1939. Teaching economics at Berhampore’s Krishnanath College must have been one of many avocations.

So versatile a man had to be both Bangal (as East Bengalis are called) and Bolshie, Chakrabarti was born in Dhaka. He was so passionately involved in a country he left when he was six only because having been politically baptised in the Students Federation and sailed close to Communism all his life, he regarded both Bengals as a single revolutionary entity. Not content with famously saddling Lenin with saying (which he didn’t!) that the road to world revolution ran from Beijing to Paris via Kolkata, Bengali Leftists re-routed the road after 1971 to take in Dhaka.

I first heard of Chakrabarti in October 1984 after Smash and Grab was published. He wrote to The Statesman promising “support and sympathy” to “Mr Namgyal” (Prince Wangchuck Namgyal of Sikkim) who had asked apropos of my book, “Who in the world’s largest democracy will raise a voice for justice in Sikkim?” Chakrabarti replied, “It may interest him and others to know that our Bengali monthly magazine, Aneek, did precisely this.” He assured Wangchuck “that many people in India still consider the annexation of Sikkim to have been a blatant act of expansionism”.

He would have welcomed the revised edition of Smash and Grab now being prepared under Tranquebar’s imprint. It will spare readers what Chomsky called “manufactured consent” and save them from a pirated edition. I owe that to someone who paid more dearly than Verghese or I for his commitment to Sikkim’s freedom. (Business Standard)

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HIMALAYAN GUARDIAN     Wednesday March 27-April 2, 2013   Buddha Park will become centre of pilgrimage tourism: Dalai Lama, CM

Buddhist monks gather during the inauguration of a Lord Buddha statue by the Dalai Lama at Buddha Park in Rabong, South Sikkim, on Monday. (pix: AFP)

Rabong, March 26: With the opening of the Buddha Park here yesterday by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Sikkim has been placed in the pilgrimage map of the world, Chief Minister Pawan Chamling said.

The Dalai Lama performed the consecration ceremony of the 137-feet tall Buddha statue at the park here yesterday. Governor BP Singh, Speaker KT Gyaltsen, Chief Minister and Chief Secretary R. Ongmu witnessed the function amidst thousands of Buddhist devotees from all over the State and neighbouring areas.

The Tibetan spiritual leader said that the people of Sikkim who are peace loving and religious should continue to follow the path shown by Lord Buddha. He said the newly-opened park, known as Tathagata Tsal, should be a place of worship and pilgrimage.

The Chief Minister said the Buddha Park will become a centre for pilgrimage tourism in the State.

Process of ‘Sikkimizaiton’ of Nepal has already begun: Gurung

“The only way to save the country is through fierce uprising”

Gurung

Kathmandu, March 26: The four-party agreement made under pressure of the ‘foreigners’ to put in place a non-political government headed by Nepal Chief Justice is a conspiracy to bring an end to the identity of the political parties.

 “The game-plan is to disintegrate Nepal. Thus foreign agents supported the formation of a government under the CJ and election is being held under his leadership,” Dev Gurung, Secretary of Nepal Communist Party-Maoist told the media in Pokhara.

Gurung also threatened to foil the election until the 11 point agreement made between the major parties including Madhesi alliance reached March 14, 2012 is scrapped, PTI reported.

 “The four parties readily accepted submitting power to the Chief Justice because they knew that they have been a miserable failure. We will not take part in such an election held by a government that has been formed by the foreigners who want to see Nepal divided into pieces,” he said.

What is the guarantee that the ruling four-party syndicate will not sell the country to India, asked Gurung said while addressing an interaction program in Pokhara recently.

 “The process of Sikkimizaiton has already begun,” he said in the program organized by Tamuwan State Committee.

“They have totally surrendered themselves to the foreigners. Those who prefer to follow the foreign diktats could easily submit the sanctity of their motherland to the foreigners,” he explained.

“The four party syndicate is trying to eliminate the country from the world map. The only way to save the country is through a fierce uprising,” he also said.

Editorial

WAIT & WATCH

Wanted: Credible Candidates

Most Golay-watchers are playing a safe game at the moment. The ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) rebel leader PS Golay hasn’t formally joined his new political outfit – Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM). Legally, he is still the MLA of the ruling party. And yet Golay was present during the opening of his party at his native village in West Sikkim recently. He has even attended subsequent party meetings during opening of SKM’s district offices. At present the Congress party seems to have become the first main victim as many of its supporters and leaders have joined the SKM. Apart from others there are a few within the ruling party big-wigs who are keenly observing the functioning of the new party. They will also observe public mood towards the SKM when Golay comes out openly shortly.

And yet there are those who have already taken the plunge and joined the new party – come what may. One of the notable and publicly-acceptable persons to join the SKM is Dzongu’s well-known social activist Dawa Lepcha. These kind of persons will surely boost the image of the new party. Old faces may be taken in the party but they need to be placed among the backbenchers. Giving them prominent position/places in the new party would certainly not be welcomed as there are very few among the has-beens who are worthy of being taken note of. What is needed is credible people who are competent, committed  and capable of bringing real change in Sikkim. Less than this is totally unacceptable. That, indeed, is a tall order for any party.

CHOMOLHARI: Bride of Khangchendzonga

Jomolhari оr Chomolhari sometimes known аs "the bride оf Khangchendzonga”, іs а mountain іn the Himalayas, straddling the border between Yadong County оf Tibet аnd the Thimphu district оf Bhutan. The north face rises оver 2700 m above the barren plains. The mountain іs the source оf the Paro Chu (Paro river) whіch flows frоm the south side аnd the Amo Chu whіch flows frоm the north side.

 The Chomolhari Basecamp trek offers you a wonderful variety of Bhutanese landscapes and is without doubt one of the most beautiful and unspoiled trekking areas in the entire Himalayas. The Chomolhari trek begins at Drugyel Dzong in Paro passing through beautiful Bhutanese villages, scattered hamlets and farmland. Bhutan's most serene vegetation zones differ from richly forested valleys to high alpine pastureland where Yak herders graze their animals.

Delicious and a rare trout fishing in the vicinity of the sky blue lake with magnificent views of three majestic peaks are some activities which can be done on a rest day. On this trek you will also encounter some of the rare species like the blue sheep, and if lucky, possibly even the Snow Leopard.

Chomolhari trek is a superb seven day trek for strong walkers. It goes into Northern Bhutan to the land of yak-hearders, to the base of Mount Chomolhari (Jhomolhari) at 7,316m/24,000ft and on to remote Lingshi Dong. One could savour upon the fabulous views of the mountains and exceptional flora along the trekking trails. There are few villages but you will encounter with many yak-herders on the way.

SIKKIM OBSERVER Saturday   March 23-29,  2013    

Dalai Lama to visit Sikkim, Siliguri next week

Gangtok, March 22: The Dalai Lama yesterday left Dharamsala for a five-day visit of Sikkim and West Bengal.

The Dalai Lama will lead a Vajrakilaya consecration prayer for a new Buddha statue followed by the official inauguration ceremony of the statue in Ravangla, South Sikkim, on Monday.

On Monday afternoon the Tibetan spiritual leader will give a teaching on Gyalsey Thokme Sangpo’s Thirty-Seven Practices of a Bodhisattva (gyalsey laklen sodunma).

On Tuesday, His Holiness will confer White Tara Long Life Empowerment (Dolker Jenang Tsewang) and the State Government and Tibetan Communities in Ravangla will offer the long-life prayer ceremony (Tenshug) to His Holiness. He is expected to arrive in Gangtok on Tuesday evening.

On the final leg of the visit, the 77-year-old Tibetan leader will visit Salugura, Siliguri (West Bengal), where he is scheduled to give teachings on Tsong Khapa’s Concise Stages for the Path to Enlightenment (Lamrim Dudon) and Longchen Rabjam's Relaxing the Mind Itself (Sem-nyid Nyesol).

On March 29, His Holiness will confer an Avalokiteshvara Initiation (Chenresig Wangchen) and will return to Dharamshala on March 30.

The Tibetan leader last visited Sikkim in December 2010 and spent two days in retreat at Tashiding monastery premises, the most sacred place for Sikkimese Buddhist, in West Sikkim.

Give top priority to connectivity in North Sikkim, High Court tells BRO, BSNL

Gangtok, March 22: The Sikkim High Court has directed the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and BSNL to give top priority to road and telecom connectivity to the backward tribal region of North Sikkim.

Acting Chief Justice SP Wangdi has asked the two agencies to take “all possible measures, be it technical or financial” to ensure that road and telecom connectivity in North District are restored at the earliest.

Noting that the Bhutia-Lepcha tribals in the remote district have been continuously facing various problems due to poor road and telecom connectivity, Justice Wangdi asked the two agencies to give top priority to this problem and address the issues with the seriousness it deserves.

Justice Wangdi’s direction came during a hearing of a petition here on Wednesday filed by the Pipon and public of Lachung, North Sikkim.

Residents of Lachung were forced to approach the court as the two organizations have ignored the problems of the people and neglected the region, which borders China.

The court had made the Telecom Ministry as a respondent as BSNL comes under its jurisdiction. Telecom Ministry and BSNL have been asked to file a compliance report by April 18.

Editorial

CBI THREAT ON DMK

Congress Bureau of Investigation Strikes

There could have been a patch-up between the UPA and its ally DMK after the latter withdrew support to the Congress-led government at the Centre on the issue of human rights violation of Tamils in Sri Lanka. But with the CBI raids on DMK leader MK Stalin’s residence in Chennai this week immediate reconciliation seems impossible. Though the CBI’s raid was done in connection with a case related to  illegal import of luxury cars Stalin, whose father is DMK leader M. Karunanidhi, has denied wrongdoing. DMK leader TR Baalu’s allegation that the raid, which took place on Thursday, was politically motivated due to the DMK's decision on Tuesday to pull out of the Congress-led national coalition government will surely have more prominent people in the opposition to back his allegation. In fact, Finance Minister P. Chidambaram told local news channels on Thursday that he "disapproved" of the CBI raid on Stalin's home. He said it will “be misunderstood." Kamal Nath, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, also condemned the timing of the raid.

The timing of the raids, which effectively seems like a thinly veiled threat, appears to point to the usual Congress stratagem of turning the screws on regional leaders in order to secure political support for its survival at the Centre. The coalition government still can muster a majority of votes in Parliament even after the DMK's exit, which means it will be unlikely to face a no-confidence vote. There are enough indications that Karunanidhi’s daughter Kanimozhi, who is one of the accused in the 2G spectrum case, may face another jail term – and even see her properties attached – if they file a chargesheet against her under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. It is also learnt that the chargesheet against Kanimozhi and A Raja is being drafted and will likely be filed early next month. These are indeed veiled threats to UPA supporters such as Mulayam Singh Yadav and Mayawati, who also face graft charges. Indeed, the BJP on Thursday alleged that the ruling Congress Party is using every means to muffle the alliance partners, who plan to abandon them. It said the government has been misusing the CBI to survive in government. It said that its allegation that the Central Bureau of Investigation is actually the Congress Bureau of Investigation has now been confirmed.

Thailand aims to enhance bilateral trade with India

Guwahati, March 22: Thailand is aiming to increase its bilateral trade with India to $16 billion by 2014 and is looking at the North Eastern region as a major hub for investment.   

   "Over the last 15 years bilateral trade between Thailand and India grew substantially reaching USD 8.2 billion in 2011 and "It is expected that this upward trend would be able to reach about USD 16 billion by 2014," permanent representative of Thailand in the Prime Minister's Office Nalinee Taveesin said.

She was speaking at a dinner meeting organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce here on Sunday evening, PTI reported.

She said the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement has created lot of opportunities for both sides to increase their bilateral trade and said her country is keen to increase its engagement with the North Eastern region.

"The governments of Thailand and India have the shared vision to bring the people of the two countries even more close. Under the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) framework, Thailand's 'Look West' policy meets with and perfectly complements India's 'Look East' policy and that's why Myanmar holds such crucial role as it shares borders with both Thailand and India.

"On a macro-economic front, Thailand, Myanmar and India have long enjoyed a close trade and investment relation and there has been close cultural ties since the 13th century (with the North Eastern region of India)," she said.

Taveesin said closer ties between India, Myanmar and Thailand will also help to strengthen trade and investment ties among all the member states of BIMSTEC and ASEAN and "deliver greater benefits to the whole business community in South East Asia and South Asia".

Taveesin said efforts to increase connectivity between India and ASEAN region is a win-win situation for both sides. "In terms of investment, Thailand ranks 36th among the largest investors in India with a cumulative FDI outflow of USD 94.8 million or about 0.06% of India's total FDI, it is mostly in machinery, feed and livestock products and construction.

"India has invested almost USD 460.2  million in Thailand mostly in chemical, paper, metal products, light industries, plastic products, auto and auto components," she said.

Regarding her government's efforts to increase trade ties with the North Eastern states, Taveesin said that "there is an wide open door for closer cooperation in numerous fields such as agriculture, forestry, mining, energy, hydro-power and eco-tourism."

She said: "North East India has been regarded by members of the business community in Thailand as a very important and attractive market and as a promising and welcoming investment destination.

"And combining these trends of North East India with Thailand, this powerful cooperation will certainly form a potential sub-regional hub with a gigantic market place full of opportunities with possibilities for investors, traders and people from India, Myanmar and Thailand."