SDF takes serious note of SKM spokesperson’s comments on Chamling …SUBMITS COMPLAINT WITH CEO ALLEGING MISREPRESENTATION OF CHAMLING’S SPEECHES

GANGTOK, 25 Mar: Sikkim Democratic Front has expressed strong displeasure and criticized the press statement of Sikkim Krantikari Morcha spokesperson, MN Dahal on the SDF president Pawan Chamling’s speeches as reported in some dailies today.
Addressing the media today, SDF spokesperson Bhim Dahal said that the party has also submitted a complaint regarding the misrepresentation of the party president’s speeches to the Chief Electoral Officer today.
It is alleged that as per the news report, the SKM spokesperson, MN Dahal, had stated that the SDF president had termed Darjeeling as the breeding ground for goons while leveling accusations against SKM for hiring goons from the area.
In the complaint to the CEO the party has said “This statement is a complete fabrication of truth and twists the contents of our party president Pawan Chamling’s speeches”. The party explains that Mr Chamling referred to only anti-national elements from several places in the north-east region and never categorized the people of Darjeeling negatively.
Meanwhile, the SDF spokespersons stated today that the party has information regarding the use of goons and muscle power from outside the state by SKM party but being a responsible party it has never named any specific place in particular. He termed the statement made by the SKM spokesperson as totally irresponsible and provocative and alleged that it is part of a conspiracy to hamper relations between Sikkim and Darjeeling hills.
“SKM should win the hearts of the people through their choice of candidates, policies and programmes and not by mixing Darjeeling in Sikkimese politics,” he further stated.
On the same, he demanded strict action from the administration on such irresponsible statements. The party has demanded that the SKM spokesperson be “censured for issuing such blatant lies through media” and has also urged the CEO “to remind the press to be responsible and do adequate research and fact checking before giving space to such false and provocative statements”.

VoterSpeaks.... What Sikkim voter wants from next government.

“Government should undertake more projects using wind energy instead of hydro power in order to avoid damages to land and forests. The healthcare sector also needs more focus with provision of better facilities in the state.”

SEEMA PRADHAN, 27, Singtam

50 families join SKM in South Sikkim

GANGTOK, 24 Mar: Sikkim Krantikari Morcha has claimed that 50 families from Passi, Palitam, Lalam and Kulbong joined the party today. The new members were welcomed at the party’s head zonal office at Namthang by constituency party president, Milan Silwal, informs an SKM release.

The West Pendam SKM candidate, Gopal Baraily is campaigning in full swing in his constituency where former Panchayat secretary, Dilliram Khatiwara along with 20 other members also joined SKM, the release informs.

The release further claims that people from those areas where the SDF party president has already campaigned are joining SKM.

Women’s wing decided not to contest elections this time: SKM

GANGTOK, 24 Mar: Sikkim Krantikari Morcha has stated that it was the decision of the women’s wing of the party not to contest the upcoming elections. This, according to the party is the reason behind the lone woman candidate of the party this time against expectations that a significantly higher number of women will feature in the candidates’ list.

Addressing a press conference today, SKM spokesperson MN Dahal stated that the party has many able women candidates but they wanted to continue with party-related works instead of contesting elections. However, he announced that in the next election, 50% of party tickets will be given to women candidates of the party.

SKM general secretary [organization] Kala Rai stated that the party will work tirelessly to strengthen women in the coming 5 years.

SKM general secretary [press & publicity], Jacob Khaling stated that although the party has fielded just one woman candidate this time, she is better and more able than all three candidates of the SDF party. He also expressed full confidence that Bharati Sharma, the SKM working president, will win the election from Soreong-Chakung.

Besides this, the party has strongly condemned the attempt to torch Mr Khaling’s house at Chakung in West Sikkim. Mr Dahal said that some parts of the house have been damaged, but timely help from neighbours saved the house from being completely razed. 

SDF appeals for peaceful environment to reassure voters

GANGTOK, 24 Mar: Sikkim Democratic Front [SDF] spokesperson Bhim Dahal today appealed that all political parties create a suitable environment in the state to encourage voters to cast their votes freely and without any pressure.

Addressing a press conference today, Mr Dahal said, “For a vibrant democracy, politicians should compete on policies and programmes discussing and debating on different issues. SDF is looking forward to see such debates and discussions by different political parties on the ground rather than on television or newspapers”.

Speaking on the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha fielding only one female candidate, SDF students’ wing secretary, Kabita Subba said, “It is ironic that a party which screamed about giving priority to women has fielded only one woman candidate”. Terming it as an injustice to women she alleged that SKM is miles away from inclusive politics.

SDF has provided social justice to women by giving them equal opportunities in politics and other areas and has been continuously working for the upliftment of women in the state, said Ms Subba.

SDF publicity secretary, CM Mishra also addressed that press conference. 

Parked vehicle torched at Namok

MANGAN, 24 Mar: A vehicle belonging to an SDF youth was torched last evening by unknown miscreants at Namok in North Sikkim. The Maruti Gypsy had been parked near the Namok slide after a breakdown. At around 9:30 pm last night, some miscreants set fire to the vehicle, it is informed.

No arrests have been made so far and the North District Police are investigating the case.

2 Congress candidates file nominations in North

MANGAN, 24 Mar:  Two Congress candidates filed their nominations in North Sikkim today.

Karma Tashi Bhutia from Kabi Lungtsok constituency and Penzong Lepcha from Dzongu constituency filed their nomination today at District Administrative Centre, Mangan where the Returning Officer (RO) North, TN Kazi along with Asst Returning Officer, Raj Yadav received their nomination papers.

The Returning Officer after completing the nomination informed them about the norms and guidelines to be followed by the candidates while campaigning for the election and further informed that the last date for the withdrawal of nomination is 29 March before 3 pm.

What’s With the Weather?

Editorial:-

Given the number of Special Days that abound nowadays, it has become difficult to keep track of which days are more than just the dates that the almanac announces them to be and which require more attention for specific issues. And because there are so many of such days, it is only natural that some pass away unnoticed. 23 March was World Meteorological Day and maybe because it was a Sunday, we don’t know of even a token observation by whichever agency is supposed to claim a celebration of the day through a press release. Be that as it may, meteorological issues and weather matters don’t seem to excite much interest anymore save for putting together bullet-points for a school debate or essay-writing competition. People don’t even talk about the weather any more it seems. But they should.

While one may have reservations over how effective such days are in generating interest and information on vital issues, it is time we accepted that we ignore weather at our own peril. Data bears out that earth’s temperature has risen in the past century. Scientists may differ on what caused it – man’s use of fossil fuel energy or the depletion in the green cover - but are unanimous in accepting that catastrophe awaits if global warming and climate continues unabated and unaddressed. And yet, climate change debates and environmental issues are being discussed in an increasingly disconnected way – from a sanitized distance in which arguments are accurate, but commitment to resolve issues only superficial. There was a time, which perhaps lasted till about five years back, when everyone was discussing global warming. No school examination was complete without a demand for an essay on global warming. Unfortunately, this did not help much because text books, those typically difficult reads and classrooms, those dangerously stifling traps to suffocate learning, ensured that what was learned by rote was never felt to the core. And as even rural areas have started living increasingly urban lives disconnected from the land and distanced from nature, the need for seasons and weather and what they mean for life is increasingly being lost. Not too many people are working in farms anymore, and that many fewer people are hence missing the benefits of a sustained monsoon drizzle or praying for sustained sunshine through the month of Mangsir. The winter sun is required for more than just enjoying oranges.

And because the young are growing up disconnected from such organic connections to the land, a day sounding as boring as the World Meteorological Day needs to be observed on a much larger scale. This year’s World Meteorological Day, for instance, was themed “Weather and climate: engaging youth." Today’s youth will benefit from the dramatic advances being made in science’s ability to understand and forecast the Earth’s weather and climate. More than that, they need to be pulled in to notice the weather, recognize climate change… get engaged in issues of weather and climate. This could save them given that most of them will live into the second half of this century and experience the increasing impacts of global warming that we have burdened them with…

16 file nominations in East

GANGTOK, 24 Mar [IPR]: Sixteen candidates submitted their nominations today in the office of the District Collector, East who is also the Returning Officer for the district.

The name of the candidates and the constituencies are: Punya Prasad Koirala [Cong] for Khamdong Singtam; Bhim Prasad Dhungel [SDF] and Padam Bdr. Chettri [Cong] for Rhenock; Rudra Narsing Sakya [Cong] for Chujachen, Dorjee Ongden Bhutia [Cong] and Pempa Tshering Bhutia for Gnathang Machong, Manoj Rai [Cong] for Namcheybung, Samdup Dorjee Lama [Cong] for Shyari, Sonam Tshering Bhutia [Cong] for Martam Rumtek, Tara Kumar Pradhan [Cong] for Upper Tadong, Rajeney Gurung [independent] for Arithang,  Tshering Gyatso Kaleon [Cong] for Gangtok, DR Thapa [SDF], Santa Bir Gurung [Cong] and Renuka Gurung for Upper Burtuk, and Palden Lachungpa [SDF] for Sangha.

Husband arrested for assault

GANGTOK, 24 Mar: The Ranipool police have arrested a man on charges of having assaulted his wife. Along with the main accused Tika Ram Subba [40], the police have also arrested his two sons for assault on the family members of his wife.

According to reports, the complainant, the 26 year old second wife of the accused, a resident of Gyalshing had married Tika Ram about 6 months ago and shifted to Ranipool. However, as per her allegations, soon after the marriage she was subjected to physical assaults on various occasions by her husband. However no complaints had been filed then.

On 23 March, her family members came to visit and enquire over her well being. It is alleged that in the course of the visit her family members were assaulted upon by Tika Ram, his two sons [from his previous marriage] and also some villagers.

As a result of the complaint, the police have arrested Tika Ram and his two sons. All have been arrested for assault and causing injuries. However, none of the sections relating to domestic violence have been invoked by the police. 

8 Congress candidates file nominations in South

NAMCHI, 24 Mar: The Returning Officer (RO), Prabhaker Verma accepted the nominations of 8 candidates of the Congress party today. The 8 Congress candidates of South Sikkim filed their nominations for the upcoming General Election 2014 at the office of the RO South in the South District Administrative Centre today.

The candidates who filed their nominations today are Dadul Lepcha [Barfung], Ishwar Prasad Rai [Poklok Kamrang], Khush Bdr Rai [Namchi Singhithang], Man Bdr Rai [Melli], Dikmaya Basnett [Namthang Rateypani], Deepak Bhandari [Temi Namphing], Om Prakash Bista [Rangang Yangang] and Pandup Lepcha [Tumin Lingee].

Bhaichung files nomination for Darjeeling seat

Darjeeling, 24 Mar [cnn-ibn]: Former Indian soccer captain Bhaichung Bhutia on Monday filed his nomination as the Trinamool Congress candidate for West Bengal’s Darjeeling constituency.

The sports icon is pitted against Gorkha Janmukti Morcha-backed Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Surinder Singh Ahluwalia, Communist Party of India-Marxist nominee Saman Pathak and Congress’ Sujoy Pathak.

Accompanied by a host of Trinamool leaders and workers, Bhutia signed the papers at the Darjeeling district election office.

Polling in the constituency will be held in the fifth phase on April 17.

You will now have a Proper Address-HOUSE NUMBERS/ BUSINESS NUMBERS MADE MANDATORY

GANGTOK, 24 Mar: What will come as a huge relief to all residents of the state, and perhaps even more so for the postal department, is the move of the State government to allot house numbers to all house structures and buildings in the state, both in the rural as well as the urban areas, and also domestic and commercial.

People will now finally have proper addresses and need not give their address in relation to recognizable landmarks as is the practice in many places still.

Business establishments will also be allotted Business Registration Numbers (BRN). People of the state, for so long, had no proper addresses despite the urban areas being put under the administration of urban local bodies under whose jurisdiction this is supposed to come under.

All establishments, domestic and commercial will now be allotted identification numbers; while business and commercial establishments will be given Business Registration Numbers, households and other buildings will be allotted with permanent unique house numbers. This according of numbers, which will henceforth be the known address of the particular household, is to be done by the Department of Economics, Statistics, Monitoring and Evaluation.

The lack of proper addresses has been posing problems to the residents especially in getting a passport, etc, which can become quite challenging. Officials inform that this is a centrally funded scheme and had been in the pipeline for quite some time now. It is informed that a national tender has also been done to get the best agencies to undertake the project in Sikkim.  In fact the proposal to allot house numbers as addresses in the urban areas had been put forward a couple of years ago but there had not been much enthusiasm. However, now the department is going ahead with the scheme.

According to officials all towns will be divided into blocks such as Block A, Block B, Block C etc and the numbers will be allotted accordingly. The numbering or address system will not have street names due to the many small roads and paths that are a feature of the small towns of Sikkim.

Also to be incorporated in this addressing system is the latest technological feature which allows for locating a particular house through GIS mapping through the internet.  The concerned agencies have been preparing maps of Gangtok on a pilot basis as well as other towns dividing them into blocks. The assigning of permanent unique house/ structure and household/ enterprise dwelling numbers to all the structures is primarily to aid in the development of an address identification system. This is expected to be helpful while conducting surveys and census, preparation of a business register and also to fulfill administrative requirements.

On the other hand BRN, as informed, will be assigned to all sub sectors such as trade, hotels, restaurants, transport, communication, real estate, legal and business services, industry, factories and all other activities engaged in the production of goods and services that add value to the State income.

In this respect it is informed that all registering authorities have been directed to incorporate the 16 digit BRN while registering all new entities. Those already registered are required to apply for a BRN within 6 months. All registering authorities including electricity boards, water supply authorities, local bodies and municipalities are to accept any application for BRN and to accept applications renewal only if the BRN has been provided by the entrepreneurs. Providing the house number has also become mandatory. 

ACT’s Tseten speaks on Teesta at World Water Day Symposium

GANGTOK, 24 Mar: Working president, Affected Citizens of Teesta, Tseten Lepcha, presented a paper at the “Symposium on South Asian Water Commons: People’s Visions on Transboundary River Sharing” held in New Delhi on the occasion of World Water Day on 22 March.

The programme, a press release informs, was attended by delegates from Nepal, India and Bangladesh and focused on the issue of trans-boundary sharing of the rivers Indus, Kosi, Barak and Brahmaputra, Ganga and Teesta.

An ACT press release informs that since Sikkim is a “first user” of the Teesta and does not have any dispute with other nations or neighboring state, Mr. Lepcha’s presentation focused more on the usage of water resources, anti-dam movement and the misuse of official position to doctor scientific studies to suit projects, like the seismic studies, Glacier Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) and Environmental clearances etc.

The Declaration of the symposium, the release informs, will be released in a few days.

CHAMLING’S CAMPAIGN TOUR REACHES NAMTHANG

Youth empowerment and tourism promotion to priority for next 5 years

NAMCHI, 23 Mar: The continuing election campaign of SDF party president, Chief Minister Pawan Chamling reached Namthang in South Sikkim today. Addressing the people of Namthang Rateypani constituency at Namthang school ground, Mr Chamling urged for larger participation from voters this election and also asked them to vote wisely.

“Sikkim has been eulogized as ‘Indrakeel’, the garden of Lord Indra, it is a beautiful garden of six lakh Sikkimese of which I am the gardener and my duty is to take care of every flower in this garden. And I have been doing this for the past 20 years,” he shared.

He informed the gathering about the various schemes and policies planned should he return to office and each announcement was greeted with loud applause from the gathered public.

 “Today more than a lakh people from outside are employed in Sikkim; this proves that the SDF government has created huge employment opportunities. Today Sikkim is the fastest developing state in India,” he added.

He further said that 10 percent of the budget will be used for youth empowerment by the next SDF government. The CM expressed confidence that the people of Sikkim will safeguard the democracy instituted by SDF in Sikkim.

Talking about the development plans for Namthang, he said that it will be developed as a major tourist destination like Samdruptse. He assured a permanent solution for drinking water supply in the area which is prone to drought.  Mr Chamling further promised construction of a ropeway, link roads to all villages in the area and carpeting of existing roads.

Amongst the plans for the state, the CM said that a new hospital specifically for TB treatment would be set up with the aim to eradicate TB from the state. He also said that Ad-hoc teachers who meet all the criteria and pass TET will be regularized in his next term. Those who don’t qualify will also be “adjusted” later in different departments, he added.

Speaking on the opposition he accused the SKM for the murder of NK Gurung and Arun Rai and called them a “party of murderers”. A clean sweep again of all 32 assembly seats will accord true homage to their martyrdom, he stressed.

“I made Golay Minister for three terms and MLA for four terms. In the last term even veteran leaders were asked to take rest but he was made MLA. He went against SDF just because he did not get the portfolio of a Minister,” said Mr. Chamling.

SDF candidate from Namthang Rateypani constituency, Tilu Gurung and Lok Sabha candidate, PD Rai also addressed the gathering. 

VoterSpeak....What the Sikkim voter wants from next government.

“Old machines with the power department should be replaced with new machines especially in rural areas to avoid frequent power disturbances and restoration of power supply should be done as soon as possible. There should be the system of proper filtration at the sources of drinking water supply to avoid water borne diseases especially during monsoon”.

GRACE GURUNG, 36, Raidang Basti, East Sikkim.

TMC names five candidates

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: Sikkim Pradesh Trinamool Congress [SPTMC] has named five candidates for the upcoming State Assembly Elections. General secretary of the state unit, Tshering Wangchuk Lepcha made the announcement during a press conference on Saturday.

The party has fielded two women candidates among the five - Yasoda Barakoti from Namthang-Rateypani and Indira Kala Neopaney from Khamdong-Singtam. The party’s other candidates are Prem Tshering Lepcha from Tumin-Lingee, Hari Prasad Chapagai from Geyzing-Bermiok and Navaraj Chettri from Rhenock.

Addressing the press conference, Mr Lepcha informed that the SPTMC led by its president, PT Lucksom has prepared a list of 22 candidates and submitted it to the party high command on 17 March. Out of 22 candidates the party high command has approved five candidates so far and the final list will be out by 25 March, he added.

Responding to media queries on Nakul Das Rai’s candidature for the Lok Sabha seat, he informed that a final announcement on this will be made on 25 March. 

Engaging students in solid waste management

35 SCHOOLS TO TAKE PART IN ENGAGE 14 – AN AWARENESS PROG

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: Thirty-five schools falling under the Gangtok Municipal Corporation [GMC] area will be participating in “Engage-14”, an awareness program on Solid Waste Management which will start on 24 March, Monday. The program is an initiative of the GMC and is supported by 24Hours Inspired.

Addressing a meeting on 22 March here in the GMC premises, Commissioner GMC, Anil Raj Rai, said that, the program is an initiative of GMC which intended to motivate students to undertake solid waste management in their respective schools. Around 5,000 students will be covered under this program, he informed.

The program will focus on sensitizing the younger generation of urban areas on the adverse effects of pollution and their responsibility towards keeping their surroundings clean. The bottom-up approach where children will educate parents regarding environmental awareness was chosen for the program to inculcate proper values in families.

Chief Learning Officer, 24 Hours Inspired, Dewakar Basnet, said that 24 Hours Inspired is a supporting partner for the program. Engage Quiz is the first of the three engagements, he informed further adding that students from IV-VI will be participating in the quiz.

The quiz session will conclude in April which will be followed up by an Engage Discussion session for students of classes VII-IX.  The discussion session will be followed by an Engage Race for classes X-XII.

SKM releases final list of candidates; Golay moves to Namthang leaving Chakung for Bharati Sharma

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha released its final list of candidates late Sunday evening. The list, released to the media over email, includes names of candidates of the remaining eleven constituencies not covered in the earlier two lists released by the party and also a change in the party president, PS Tamang’s [Golay] constituency.

Mr. Tamang, whose candidature had earlier been announced for Soreng-Chakung and Upper Burtuk, retains the latter constituency but has shifted out of Soreng-Chakung to instead contest from Namthang-Rateypani. The party has awarded the Soreng-Chakung constituency to its working president Bharati Sharma and Mr. Tamang will now go up against SDF candidates Tilu Gurung in Namthang-Rateypani and DR Thapa in  Upper Burtuk.

Among Mr. Tamang’s first backers in his move against SDF, Bhojraj Rai, gets the Poklok-Kamrang ticket where he is pitted against KB Rai of the SDF. Interestingly, both candidates have, in the past, represented Jorethang as SDF MLA’s in pre-delimitation elections.

With MK Subba out of the contention on a technicality, the Rangang-Yangang constituency from where Chief Minister Pawan Chamling is contesting will have Bikash Basnet wearing the SKM colours.

Among the remaining candidates in the final list are Lok Nath Sharma from Gyalshing-Bernyak, Prem Karki from Melli, Dr. MK Sharma from Khamdong-Singtam, Hemendra Adhikari from Rhenock, Dr. Michung Bhutia from Martam-Rumtek, Shyam Sundar Pradhan from Arithang, Pintsho Chopel Lepcha from Gangtok and Sandup Lepcha from Lachen-Mangan.

SKM releases final list of candidates; Golay moves to Namthang leaving Chakung for Bharati Sharma

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha released its final list of candidates late Sunday evening. The list, released to the media over email, includes names of candidates of the remaining eleven constituencies not covered in the earlier two lists released by the party and also a change in the party president, PS Tamang’s [Golay] constituency.

Mr. Tamang, whose candidature had earlier been announced for Soreng-Chakung and Upper Burtuk, retains the latter constituency but has shifted out of Soreng-Chakung to instead contest from Namthang-Rateypani. The party has awarded the Soreng-Chakung constituency to its working president Bharati Sharma and Mr. Tamang will now go up against SDF candidates Tilu Gurung in Namthang-Rateypani and DR Thapa in  Upper Burtuk.

Among Mr. Tamang’s first backers in his move against SDF, Bhojraj Rai, gets the Poklok-Kamrang ticket where he is pitted against KB Rai of the SDF. Interestingly, both candidates have, in the past, represented Jorethang as SDF MLA’s in pre-delimitation elections.

With MK Subba out of the contention on a technicality, the Rangang-Yangang constituency from where Chief Minister Pawan Chamling is contesting will have Bikash Basnet wearing the SKM colours.

Among the remaining candidates in the final list are Lok Nath Sharma from Gyalshing-Bernyak, Prem Karki from Melli, Dr. MK Sharma from Khamdong-Singtam, Hemendra Adhikari from Rhenock, Dr. Michung Bhutia from Martam-Rumtek, Shyam Sundar Pradhan from Arithang, Pintsho Chopel Lepcha from Gangtok and Sandup Lepcha from Lachen-Mangan.

SIRD observes World Water Day

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: The Communication & Capacity Development Unit (CCDU) of State Institute of Rural Development (SIRD) observed World Water Day 2014 in partnership with WWF-India, Khangchendzonga Landscape Programme and supported by GIZ-India and Tata Housing, at SIRD, South Sikkim on 22 March.

The programme saw the participation of teachers from all the four districts, Panchayat and SHG members from Deythang GPU, Field Facilitators, NGOs and students from SICB, Jorethang SSS, Pipalay SS and St. Francis School. The events included poetry, debate and quiz competitions, book release, launch of SIRD Zero Waste Project, photo and comic exhibitions, etc based around the central theme of water.

A press release informs that about 300 persons participated in the event, which started with an introduction to the day’s events and importance of World Water Day and Zero Waste by Director, SIRD, Suchitra Rasaily. Secretary, RMDD, DR Nepal was the chief guest for the day while SD Dhakal [Chief Administrator-SICB], PN Tamang [President-Sikkim Academy] and Roshan Rai [Project Officer-DLR Prerna, Darjeeling] judged the competitions.

Book on “Spring of Life-An educational resource for schools’’ by WWF-India was released on the day. The RMDD Secretary along with other dignitaries, inaugurated the SIRD Zero Waste Project. This was followed by Photo Exhibition of Sikkim Dhara Vikas/Springshed Development sponsored by MGNREGA Cell, RMDD, GoS and Grassroot Comic Exhibition on Water & Sanitation developed for World Water Day during a workshop organized by CCDU-SIRD in collaboration with India Water Portal from 19-21 March.

The above inauguration and exhibition was followed by release of Handbook on Dhara Vikas by GIZ-India. National Coordinator for GIZ CCA-NER, Dr. Indrani Phukan who was especially present for the release, gave a brief introduction on the handbook and thanked their partners, especially MGNREG Cell, RMDD, GoS, for making it possible, the release adds.

SDF indifferent to KN Topgay and BT Tamang joining SKM

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: Sikkim Democratic Front [SDF] is unaffected by Gangtok Mayor KN Topgay and Namchi Municipal chairperson BT Tamang leaving the party and joining the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha [SKM], said SDF spokesperson, Bhim Dahal on Saturday.

Addressing a press conference on Saturday, Mr Dahal said that it is not a loss for SDF that the two have joined an “undemocratic, violent and anti-people party” leaving a “democratic, peaceful and pro-people” unit. High aspirations have finished Mr Topgay’s political life, he added.

SDF CEC member, Chewang Namgyal alleged that Mr Topgay joining the SKM party has revealed his selfish interests.

On Mr Topgay’s allegations of the Gangtok Municipal Corporation being a powerless authority, Mr Dahal said that the 273 and 254 amendments to the constitution accord power to municipal bodies that even the state government cannot have any say over. “It was the ruling party that revived the municipal corporation after a long gap in 2010 and they did not find any weakness in the municipal corporations when they were in the party,” he commented.

Mr Dahal informed that the party has lodged a formal complaint regarding the attack on its West district general secretary, BB Rai on the Gyalshing-Legship road by some masked men. While strongly condemning the incident, he urged the administration to take strong action against the culprits.

3 more SDF candidates file nominations

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: Three Sikkim Democratic Front candidates filed their nominations for the upcoming elections on Saturday. Hishey Lachungpa for Gangtok constituency [BL], Udai Lama for Arithang constituency and Menlom Lepcha for Martam-Rumtek constituency [BL] submitted their nominations at the office of the District Collector, East who is also the Returning Officer, East Sikkim.

Now, only three SDF candidates are yet to file their nomination papers – Bhim Dhungel from Rhenock, DR Thapa from Upper Burtuk and Palden Lachungpa for the Sangha seat. Meanwhile, apart from the SDF’s no other candidates have filed their nomination papers yet. The last date for submission of nomination papers is 26 March.

Change in locations of two polling stations in Namcheybong

GANGTOK, 23 Mar [IPR]: The polling station of Namchebong, Part 18 has been shifted to Sun Pharma Guest House while polling station of Syari, Part 2 has been shifted to Lower Nandok JHS, as per a press release received from the Office of the District Election Officer, East.

Students unhappy with delay in Phodong School building repairs

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: Students of Phodong Senior Secondary School, North Sikkim, have expressed their dissatisfaction over the delay in the repair of damages sustained by the school building in the windstorm of 14 December last year.

It is informed that the school authorities had appealed to the concerned department in

January earlier this year for the restoration of the school building roof, but no action has been taken so far. Due to the roof being damaged water enters the class rooms when it rains causing much inconvenience to the students.

The students have again appealed to the concerned department to initiate repair work at the earliest. 

CS takes stock of election preparedness in North District

MANGAN, 23 Mar: Chief Secretary AK Srivastava took stock of election preparedness in North district today. He was accompanied by Secretary, Home Department, MG Kiran, Colonel GREF, BK Sarkar, DGM, BSNL, Raghav Swami and other officials. The Chief Secretary found the election preparedness excellent and applauded the district election team for the job.

ADC, North, RK Yadav apprised the CS of the details of election preparedness that have been put in place by the district election team through a power point presentation. The Chief Secretary was informed that the district has 26076 total numbers of voters out of which 12683 are male and 13393 female. Out of 44 polling station there are eight polling station identified as critical - five in Dzongu and three in Lachen- Mangan.

The Chief Secretary urged the officers who have been deployed for election duty to go through the election instruction very carefully so as to conduct free and fair polling. He directed the DGM, BSNL and SE, Power Department to ensure uninterrupted service and also asked the Colonel GREF to remain vigil over road connectivity.  He stressed that road connectivity, telecommunication and power supply are most important.

Further, he suggested that the district election team hire more videographers for additional purposes and micro observers too. He also spoke on the importance of Media Certification and Monitoring Committee and the Model Code of Conduct.

Meanwhile, he has directed the DM, North that postal ballots must reach the counting center within the stipulated time and also to focus on proper nomination filing and arrangement of EVMs.

Secretary, MG Kiran complimented the team for their efforts and hoped that the district would witness free and fair elections this year too.

DM North, TN Kazi highlighted the problem relating to telecommunication and suggested the installation of high-class power backup system in Mangan to the DGM, BSNL.

SP, North, RN Yadav spoke on the law and order scenario and informed that all the licensed arms have been surrendered.

Later, the CS also visited the strong room at Zilla Bhawan and also inspected some polling stations.

Gangtok Mayor and Namchi’s municipal chairman ditch SDF, join SKM

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: Gangtok Mayor, KN Topgay, and Namchi Municipal Council chairperson, BT Tamang officially joined the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha on Saturday. Mr Topgay along with his supporters came out in a rally from Lall Bazaar to the SKM head-office to join the party.

Addressing the gathering in the SKM office, Mr. Topgay clarified that he was not disheartened that he did not get a ticket from the SDF party to contest the 2014 elections. However, he accused the SDF party president of being a dictator and said that absolute power will corrupt the powerful.

He has now extended full support to SKM in what he sees as a fight against the “autocratic rule” of SDF in the state. People of Sikkim are ready to remove SDF from power, he added.

Mr Topgay went on to allege that the GMC and other urban bodies have no authority and are only expected to look after garbage disposal, jhora cleaning and licenses. He further alleged corruption in the government departments and that the ruling party is misleading people with false promises.

Likewise, Mr Tamang also alleged that NMC enjoyed no power and that the Namchi administration is run by the CM’s family. He stated that he has joined SKM to work for the people of Sikkim and alleged that there has been no real development in the state under the SDF government.

Governor attends Futsol finals at TNSS

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: Governor Shriniwas Patil attended the finals of Futsol Tournament organised by Sikkim Royal Sports Academy at the playground of Tashi Namgyal Senior Secondary School, Development Area, Gangtok as the chief guest on 23 March.

On reaching the venue, the Sikkim Royal Sports Academy members led by its president, Dr. SK Dewan accorded a warm welcome to the Governor, informs a press release.

The two-day under 15 tournament for both boys and girls with the theme ‘Let your children play’ started from 22 March and was participated by many government and public schools in and around Gangtok.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor expressed his happiness for having got the opportunity to witness the tournament and thanked the organisers for inviting him.

The Governor lauded the effort put in by Sikkim Royal Sports Academy to provide a platform for young students to excel in the field of sports. Sports is a means to provide guidance and direction, channelizing  the potential of the youth and also keeping them away from the vices and evils of  the society  such as alcoholism and drugs, said the Governor.

Commending the role of the academy in facilitating the youth to excel in sports in the state since its inception in 2012, the Governor also thanked the organisers for providing opportunity to the differently abled children of Spastic Society of Sikkim to participate in the sports meet. He called for proactive role of NGOs in nurturing the youth of society and expressed hope that the committed effort being made by Sikkim Royal Sports Academy will certainly bear fruit in the days to come.

Addressing the students on the occasion, the Governor mentioned about the various opportunities the world has to offer to the youth and asked them to be motivated and dedicated to excel in the chosen field, the release mentions.

Governor, at the end, gave away the trophies and certificates to the winners and runners up of the tournament congratulating them on their achievement.

Also on the day, a team of senior medical specialists from STNM Hospital and Manipal Hospital conducted a health screening camp for all the participating players. This initiative of the Academy was appreciated by both the parents and schools.

The winners of the final match were TNA [Boys] and SRSA [Girls].

Detail, Don’t Just Defame

Editorial:-

This is not the first time that this section is returning to this theme; hopefully it will be the last time for this election season and if one were to dare dream bigger, future elections will present no reason to comment in such a mood. Unfortunately, as far as the present political environment goes, need continues to be felt to urge the contenders in the fray to devote more time to explaining and detailing their stands and positions on the next five years for Sikkim than taking digs at opponents and defaming each other. Need one add, people, at least those not already card bearing members of different camps, will decide their vote based on the developmental blueprint which finds the most appeal with them. Admittedly, nastiness in a campaign speech littered with allegations makes for some vicariously wicked entertainment, but elections are contested on more than TRPs and many more factors need to be pulled in than the immediacy of an applause or the boisterousness of the immediate clique. With little over a fortnight of campaign time left, contenders will be tempted to dodge detailing for the less demanding routine of defaming. The voters, who have this fortnight to demand and get whatever they want, should demand the candidates to approach them with plans and proposals not jokes and snide remarks. They could indulge the latter to unwind after the former has been explained, but not at the cost of sharing manifesto bullet-points.

As this section has repeated often, ridicule and criticism might be necessary garnishing for a political speech, but should not be allowed to become the only ingredients of a public address. The intellectual expanse of a political speaker should spread beyond highlighting failures and shortcomings of opponents. The substance of a public addresses has to be in the solutions that the respective parties and their speakers have devised, the vision they have sketched out for Sikkim and its people for the next five years. Of course, vicious public rhetoric will make a leader a popular public speaker, but it is yet to translate into votes even in Sikkim if past poll performances are taken into consideration.

CS reviews preparedness of East district

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: A review meeting on preparedness of East district for the upcoming General Election 2014 was convened by the Chief Secretary, AK Srivastava on 21 March at District Conference Hall of D.A.C Sichey. The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary, Home, GOS, District Collector East, SP East, ADMs, SDMs, GM BSNL and other officers from line departments.

An official release informs that the DC East briefed the Chief Secretary about the activities undertaken till date for the preparedness of the General Election 2014. SP East informed that all necessary arrangements have been made by the East District Police for the smooth conduct of the elections.

The Chief Secretary requested all the concerned officials to work diligently for the smooth conduct of the election. He directed the Power Department to restore power supply at the earliest in the area wherever it is disrupted and to take necessary steps to meet the emergencies. He also directed GM, BSNL to resolve connectivity issues and ensure undisrupted communication, especially during election.

The Chief Secretary also directed the District Administration for proper training of Presiding and Polling Officers to avoid any mistakes during elections and expressed his desire to attend one of the training sessions conducted by the District Administration. He also asked the district administration to be prepared for any natural calamity that might occur as the monsoon season is approaching, the release mentions.

The Chief Secretary expressed hope that a free, fair and peaceful election will be conducted under the leadership of the District Collector, East who is also the Returning Officer for Sikkim Parliamentary Constituency, Sangha and 12 Assembly constituencies. 

CS convenes familiarization meeting with HoDs and CEO

GANGTOK, 23 Mar [IPR]: Chief Secretary AK Srivastava chaired a familiarization meeting of all Heads of Departments including the Chief Election Officer here at the Conference Hall of the New Secretariat, Gangtok on Saturday. This was the first meeting of the Chief Secretary with the Heads of Departments since assuming charge of the office on 15 March.

The Chief Secretary in his address informed about his recent meetings with district officials of West, South and East Districts where he took stock of the arrangements for the upcoming elections. He also informed about his meeting with senior officers of NHPC and BSNL to assess the power supply and communication facilities during the election process. He stressed that all arrangements should be made to ensure fair and peaceful conduct of elections.

The Chief Secretary stated that the State Government is geared up to facilitate a smooth state of affairs through this crucial period. He added that the Government is receptive to the continuous directives of the Election Commission of India and will ensure full compliance. In this regard, he urged the HODs to keep a careful watch on the issues concerning the elections while carrying out the normal functions of the office.

Chief Election Officer, D Anandan gave a detailed note of the election process in the state. He informed that all necessary actions are being taken to ensure smooth conduct of the elections. He maintained that the state is fully geared up with all necessary arrangements made, deadlines met, law and order fully under control, and model code of conduct sincerely observed.

He stated that the election process needed cooperation from all the departments especially with regard to compliance to directives from the Election Commission of India. He informed that issues raised by various departments to the Election Commission would be duly communicated to the ECI and the response communicated back. Likewise any complaints communicated to the concerned department should be addressed in less than 48 hours and action taken report submitted, he stated.

The Chief Secretary reiterated that basic facilities like drinking water, uninterrupted power supply, toilets, and ramps where necessary, were to be ascertained on the poll day. He called for involvement of departments like Power, RM&DD, PHE, Roads, and HRDD to make temporary arrangements especially for the elections. Director General of Police, Jasbir Singh gave a brief about the law and order arrangements in the State.

Earlier, Principal Secretary Home/FRED, MG Kiran, in his welcome address, assured on behalf of all the Heads of Departments, full support to the Chief Secretary. He stated that the state is ready for elections and expressed optimism over its smooth conduct.

Congress candidates to file nominations on Monday

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: Congress candidates will be filing nominations in all four districts on Monday. After filing nominations, the party will begin the election campaigning for the party candidates throughout the state.

An SPCC press release informs that at present the party’s candidates have been conducting door-to-door visits in their respective areas to gain support for the party. The release informs that among the six main agendas of the party are tribal status to the state and autonomous council for North Sikkim for the security of BL community. 

Chamling promises to leverage youth empowerment to fuel development in Sikkim

SDF CAMPAIGN MEETING HELD AT NAMCHI

NAMCHI, 23 Mar: After filing the nominations from two constituencies of South Sikkim on Friday, SDF party president Chief Minister Pawan Chamling returned to the campaign trail with a public meeting at Singithang public ground here on Saturday. The meeting, held for Poklok-Kamrang and Namchi-Singhithang constituencies started with a welcome address by senior party leader, Passang R Sherpa followed by the address of SDF candidate from Poklok-Kamrang, KN Rai. Mr. Chamling is contesting from Namchi-Singhithang and Rangang-Yangang.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Chamling said, “This is a big opportunity for the people of Sikkim to choose their own government. Since the past 20 years SDF has been serving Sikkim and its people. We have done exactly what people wanted us to do during these 20 years”. Above all we have given peace to the people of Sikkim for 20 years

Accusing the opposition parties of misleading the people, he said that they should come up with new and better policies than what the present SDF government is doing for the people of Sikkim. “Our next government will do more than what we have done for the people of Sikkim till date”, he added. 

Mr. Chamling stated that the SDF government has always respected government employees not with words but with work. When SDF came to power there were only two posts at the Secretary level for state civil service officers but now there are 12 such posts due to which the State’s civil servants are getting the opportunity to serve the state as Secretaries, he highlighted.

Highlighting the achievements of his government, Mr. Chamling said that 40,000 were given regular jobs during the SDF government against the 13,000 earlier. Lakhs were given temporary jobs in both government and private sectors, he added. He further said that all educated youths of the state will be provided jobs in government and private sectors in the next SDF government.

“We don’t want to take advantage of the weakness of the youth but will empower them instead to develop the state,” he said. 

Namchi hospital will be upgraded into a 300-bedded hospital while the second phase of beautification of Namchi bazaar will also be done by the next SDF government, added Mr Chamling. He further promised one tourist centre in each GPU.

“This time I am contesting from Namchi Singithang constituency but the people of Poklok Kamrang (which he represents at present) will always be dear to me. I will fulfill all the pending works of Namchi Singithang in our next government. I want to make it a model constituency”, he added.

Terming SKM as “Sikkim Khaney Manch”, Mr Chamling said that they are the opposition not only to SDF but to the Sikkimese people as well.

“In comparison to Gujarat’s debt of Rs 2 lakh crore, Sikkim has a debt of Rs 2800 crore which is the minimum amongst the states of India. We will repay this debt with the state’s revenue in two years and Sikkim will be the first debt-free state of India,” said Mr Chamling.

The meeting was also addressed by Lok Sabha candidate of the party, PD Rai.

BJP announces first list of candidates

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: Bharatiya Janta Party Sikkim unit has announced its first list of 12 candidates for the upcoming assembly elections.

The BJP candidates are Ashish Gurung for Yangthang, Keshar Man Gurung for Maneybung Dentam, Man Dhoj Thapa for Geyzing Bermiok, Laten Sherpa for Rinchenpong [BL], Sher Bahadur Karki for Soreng Chakung, Madan Kumar Sharma for Khamdong Singtam, Amar Lohar for West Pendam [SC], Gajendra Rizal for Chujachen, Tashi Rai for Namcheybung, Elle Rai Pal for Upper Tadong, Ugen Tamang for Upper Burtuk and NG Dorji for Gangtok.

NB Khatiwada, as already announced, is the BJP candidate for the Lok Sabha seat.

Sikkim-AAP releases first list of 7 candidates

GANGTOK, 23 Mar: The Aam Aadmi Party [AAP], Sikkim Unit has also released its first list of candidates for the upcoming general elections. The list was released today and has seven candidates, including the candidate for the Lok Sabha seats.

Kushal Rai is standing for the Lok Sabha elections, Kesher Kumari Neopany [Upper Burtuk], Sulochana Rai [ Namcheybong], Bimal Darjee [West Pendam], Dorjee Dadul Bhutia [Gangtok], Roman Shilal [Zoom Salghari] and Prashant Lamichaney [Upper Tadong]. Two of the candidates are women.

Addressing the media, the AAP president, Kushal Rai stated that all candidates in the first list are election debutants aged between 23 to 32 years old.

“The next list may be announced on Monday as we are trying to field as many candidates as we can. It is likely that we will not be contesting all 32 seats, we may field candidates for 17 to 19 seats”, he added.

The AAP candidates will file their nominations by 25 March and then on 26 March the party will come out with its national and state agendas and manifesto for the people.