Sikkim’s children lead the call: "Don’t climb Mount Khangchendzonga"

The people of Sikkim led by its children have come forward to issue an appeal: “Please do not climb Mount Khangchendzonga.” This sacred mountain, standing tall as the world’s third-highest peak, is not merely a geographical marvel for Sikkimese citizens. It is, to them, a living deity; a guardian spirit that has watched over their land for generations.

This outcry comes in the wake of a recent military expedition to the mountain that has stirred widespread concern and spiritual unrest. The climb, seen by some as an adventure or a matter of national pride, is being regarded by many in Sikkim as a grave desecration of their most revered sacred site.

The elders have warned that such spiritual transgressions could disrupt the delicate balance of nature and life in the region. Tseten Tashi Bhutia, Convenor of the Sikkim Bhutia Lepcha Apex Committee (SIBLAC), has been vocal in his criticism of the expedition. “If temples require purification after political visits, how can we ignore the climbing of our most sacred mountain?” he asked in a strongly worded statement.

Bhutia urged the government to act urgently and responsibly. He pointed out how even non-religious countries like China have prohibited climbs on sacred peaks such as Mount Kailash. Similarly, Nepal has maintained bans on Machapuchare and Khumbila for religious reasons. India, Bhutia argued, must show the same respect for its spiritual diversity, particularly in the Northeast, where indigenous beliefs and nature worship are deeply intertwined.

SIBLAC has also demanded purification rituals (shuddhi or punyahavachanam) be conducted immediately to restore spiritual balance. They warn that failing to respect these beliefs might result in natural disturbances, as per traditional Buddhist beliefs.