Social and Political Activist Passang Sherpa, who is also a member of the BJP party, refuted claims made by the opposition party regarding the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in Sikkim.
Sherpa stressed that the CAA has not been implemented in the state, contrary to the opposition's statements.
He exclaimed that the state assembly has not yet passed a resolution to agree on its implementation. Sherpa's comments were in response to the Sikkim Democratic Front's (SDF) claims that the state government has taken no action to prevent the implementation of the CAA in Sikkim.
"The opposition party is misleading the people by saying CAA has been implemented in the state of Sikkim but the fact is that unless and until the state assembly passes a resolution agreeing the same it won't be implemented. Must tell SDF yesterday said CAA has been implemented in the state of Sikkim as the state government has not done anything to be barred the same", said Sherpa while speaking to the media.
Earlier, Passang Sherpa who recently joined the BJP party spoke on remarks made by Sikkim Union Home Minister's assertion in the Parliament that Sikkim, safeguarded by Article 371F would not see the implementation of the contentious CAA was brought to light by Sherpa.
Article 371F of the Indian Constitution grants special provisions to Sikkim, ensuring its unique status and autonomy within the Indian Union. However, despite Home Minister Amit Shah's assurance, the decision to implement or reject the CAA now rests with the state assembly.
Article 371F, a special provision tailored for Sikkim, safeguards the state's unique identity and cultural heritage following its merger with India in 1975. This constitutional provision grants Sikkim several distinct privileges, including protection for its indigenous population and special legislative powers for the Governor and the Sikkim Legislative Assembly.
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