Left-out communities from Sikkim, West Bengal unite in Gangtok, demand tribal status

Left-out communities from Sikkim and West Bengal, on October 20 reaffirmed their non-political stance in their quest for tribal status.
 

During their second coordination meeting in Gangtok, the Joint Action Committee (JAC), formed to advocate for these communities, emphasised its commitment to a collective approach, free from political affiliations.
 

JAC President Shiva Kumar Rai clarified, "We're a non-political organization; we won't comment on political matters. Our focus is on compiling a comprehensive ethnographic report for submission to Sikkim, West Bengal, and the Central governments." 
 

The committee aims to raise awareness among students, youths, and grassroots communities.
 

The absence of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at the meeting sparked concerns, with opposition parties suggesting that the demand for tribal status might be linked to a potential Sikkim-Darjeeling merger. However, JAC President Rai declined to comment, citing the committee's non-political nature.
 

The JAC drew inspiration from past successes, including the Bhasa Manyata Andolan in the 1990s and the recognition of Limboo Tamang communities as tribes in the 2000s. The committee includes members from the Gorkha Territorial Administration and has submitted reports to the Central government.

The committee plans to:

- Conduct ethnographic studies
- Launch a signature campaign
- Include communities from North Eastern states
- Organise a 'Dharna' at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, if necessary
 

Darjeeling has been pursuing tribal status for 11 communities since 2014. The JAC's non-political approach aims to unite left-out communities and amplify their voices.