Sikkim: SKM rebuffs ex-CM Chamling’s claims, defends record on farming, youth, and identity

Facing growing attacks from the opposition, the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) held a press conference on June 24 to push back against recent criticism by former Chief Minister Pawan Chamling and the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF). The SKM framed the opposition’s remarks as lacking substance and sought to reclaim the narrative around development, identity politics, and the legacy of organic farming.

SKM leaders focused on what they called “political rhetoric” from Chamling, who governed the state for over two decades. “There’s not much substance in the opposition’s statements,” said Jacob Khaling Rai, Political Secretary to the Chief Minister. “It’s sad to see a former CM, who ruled for 25 years, resorting to baseless claims.”

The press conference was a coordinated effort by several SKM leaders to counter the SDF’s narrative. They outlined key achievements since the party took power in 2019 and accused the opposition of spreading misinformation.

SKM spokesperson Yougan Tamang addressed recent praise directed at Komal Chamling, daughter of the former CM, for her continued support of organic agriculture. While acknowledging her efforts, Tamang warned against personal glorification. “It was not the effort of one man; the people made it happen,” he said, while calling her a “revolutionary comrade.”

He emphasised SKM’s role in strengthening the sector, highlighting events like fish melas that support farmers. “These events help boost farmers’ income, and over 1,729 people have already registered under the National Fisheries Digital Platform,” Tamang noted.

Responding to criticism from Chamling regarding such initiatives, he said, “Today’s youth want to be entrepreneurs. The government is supporting them. Mocking startup schemes is disheartening.”

Khaling Rai countered the SDF’s allegations of underperformance by pointing to progress in healthcare and education. He cited the operationalization of Sikkim University and the State Medical College as proof of advancement. “Earlier, students protested for basic needs. Now, even remote areas have improved roads and access to education,” he said.

He also highlighted schemes like Vatsalya Yojana, which he said are helping childless couples. “Under our leadership, hospitals are performing critical surgeries that were previously unavailable.”

Political Secretary Bikash Basnet took on the issue of identity-based politics, calling attempts to question the Nepali-speaking community’s status “unacceptable.” “The Nepali language has been in the Eighth Schedule since 1992,” he reminded. “'Khas' communities are officially recognised under state orders.”

Basnet also addressed fiscal concerns, stating the state is compliant with Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act guidelines. “The fiscal deficit narrative is misleading. The state recorded revenue surpluses in 2022 and 2023.”

He demanded an official holiday recognising the Khas community and added, “We will not tolerate political exploitation of ethnic identities.”

Spokesperson Krishna Lepcha brought a local perspective, defending SKM’s rural initiatives. “We have made our villages hubs of development—free from hunger and sorrow,” he said. “Roads, electricity, water—all have reached remote areas. Even in North Sikkim, work under Section 269 is in full swing.”

Lepcha distanced himself from the opposition, stating, “I joined not out of compulsion but because of vision. Chamling’s era was full of incomplete promises. Today’s youth can see through it.”

He reiterated support for the organic movement as a grassroots cause. “My mother still farms every day. Organic farming is our reality, not a slogan.”

Lepcha concluded with a sharp contrast between the SKM and its rivals. “This is not about empty rhetoric. The people know who serves and who just speaks. We will continue to lead Sikkim for the next 30 years with real work.”