Sikkim's quest for tribal status gains momentum with new ethnographic report

A nine-member expert committee has completed an ethnographic study on Sikkim’s left-out communities and submitted its findings to the state government in New Delhi on August 18. The submission was made in the presence of representatives from the Eleven Indigenous Ethnic Communities of Sikkim plus one (EIECOS+1), scholars, and senior officials.

 

The study, prepared with the involvement of scholars from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), economic advisor to the Chief Minister Mahendra P. Lama, and representatives from the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (ORGI), is considered a crucial step in the long-standing demand for tribal status for 12 communities in Sikkim.

 

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, accompanied by ministers and legislators representing these groups, joined EIECOS leaders in Delhi for the submission. The report will now be tabled in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly before being forwarded to the Centre for consideration, a process that could eventually involve both Houses of Parliament and require presidential approval.

 

At a press conference in Gangtok, EIECOS Chairman SK Rai emphasised the difference in approach this time. “Earlier reports often relied heavily on secondary data and lacked proper fieldwork, which led to them being disregarded by the Registrar General of India. This time… we not only compiled documents but also conducted field studies, visiting villages and interacting directly with people at the grassroots level,” he said.

 

Highlighting the involvement of renowned academics, Rai noted, “Earlier, renowned sociologists and historians were never there to guide us. Now, with such experts guiding us, the report has gained much-needed authenticity.”

 

EIECOS leaders expressed optimism that the revised report strengthens their case. “With the blessings of the Prime Minister, Home Minister, Tribal Affairs Minister, RGI and NCST, we are confident that our demand for recognition as tribals will gain stronger ground,” Rai said.