“Women’s safety must come before politics: SDF leader Komal Chamling

Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) leader Komal Chamling, daughter of former Chief Minister Pawan Chamling, has called for urgent action to protect women from online harassment, saying that “women’s safety must come before politics.”

Addressing the media in Gangtok, Komal expressed concern over the rising cases of cyberbullying and sexual harassment against women leaders in Sikkim, particularly from opposition parties. On October 27, an SDF delegation met with the State Women’s Commission, the Director General of Police (DGP), and the Home Secretary to submit a memorandum highlighting two recent incidents of cyber abuse involving SDF spokesperson Yojana Khaling and opposition leader Reema Chappagai.

“We did not go there as party representatives but as women demanding safety. Every woman in Sikkim deserves dignity and protection,” Komal stated.

She said that while the Women’s Commission responded positively and assured inquiries into both cases, the DGP’s office cited procedural delays, claiming that the investigation could take time due to the involvement of international social media platforms like Facebook. Komal, however, expressed concern that such delays often result in justice being denied to victims, especially those belonging to opposition parties.

“When the ruling party files a complaint, action is immediate. But when opposition members seek help, even FIRs are delayed or ignored. This double standard is unacceptable,” she added.

Komal also alleged that many of the abusive accounts on social media appear to defend or promote the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) party. “If SKM truly has no link with these accounts, why hesitate to help the police identify those responsible? Their silence raises serious questions,” she remarked.

SDF leader Yojana Khaling, who has been at the receiving end of online rape threats and derogatory remarks, shared her anguish, urging authorities to take swift and firm action against perpetrators.

Komal further said that the SDF would continue to pursue the matter until justice is delivered. “This is not just about our party members; it’s about every woman in Sikkim who deserves to feel safe online,” she said.