Fierce Rejection: Sikkim BJP President Denounces Darjeeling Merger Rumours with Conviction
Sikkim BJP President DR Thapa firmly refutes rumors about a potential Sikkim-Darjeeling merger, calling them baseless and asserting such a merger is impossible. He emphasizes BJP Sikkim’s adamant opposition to the idea and urges the public to ignore such groundless discussions, insisting the party has no involvement in the matter.
Thapa raises significant concerns over illegal immigration, noting an alarming trend since 2013. He critiques the ‘One Nation, One Ration Card’ policy for potentially increasing the influx of illegal migrants, arguing it enables them to access benefits nationwide. With over four lakh illegal migrants already in Sikkim, Thapa advocates for an Inner Line Permit (ILP) system to regulate entry, akin to protections in other Northeastern states. He presses for stringent checks at entry points and demands ILP implementation from the central government, deeming it crucial given Sikkim’s sensitive geopolitical position.
On economic issues, Thapa highlights Sikkim’s Rs. 22,000 crore debt piled up over five decades. He condemns previous governments for their financial mismanagement, pointing to deficiencies in healthcare, employment, and infrastructure. He calls for collaborative efforts to ameliorate the state’s financial health.
Comparing Sikkim to Meghalaya, Thapa insists Sikkim deserves ILP due to its strategic location bordering China, Bhutan, and Nepal. He voices frustration over exclusion from talks regarding ST status for 12 communities and questions his status as a Sikkimese citizen.
Reflecting on his second term as BJP State President, Thapa aims to fortify grassroots support and ensure BJP schemes reach remote villages. He reassures that Sikkim’s domicile status, safeguarded by Article 371(F), is not affected by recent Supreme Court judgments.
Criticizing the state government’s handling of the Teesta Dam project, Thapa demands an environmental reassessment following the devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood, stressing the need for urgent and thorough action.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/sikkim/story/sikkim-bjp-president-denies-darjeeling-merger-rumours-says-completely-against-it-1164403-2025-02-01?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-02-01 18:00:00
