An open letter to Pawan Chamling, former CM, Sikkim

Subject: Failure to Complete "Stairways to Heaven" at Daramdin, West Sikkim from 1998 to 2019.

.Dear Pawan Chamling sir,

I am writing to express my deep concerns and disappointment regarding the incomplete "Stairways to Heaven" project at Daramdin, West Sikkim which started from 1998, which was dedicated to the Lepchas of Sikkim during your tenure as the Chief Minister.

It is disheartening to witness the negligence and failure to complete a project that aimed to uplift the lives of the Lepcha community and promote tourism in the Daramdin constituency. This incomplete project has had adverse effects on the constituency, depriving it of potential tourist flows and causing financial hardships for the youth of Daramdin.

The "Stairways to Heaven" project held immense potential to boost tourism, generating revenue and employment opportunities for the local population. Unfortunately, due to its incomplete state, Daramdin has been largely overlooked by tourists and the economic development and prosperity that could have been gained from it.

The youth of Daramdin, who could have benefitted greatly from the opportunities offered by tourism, have been forced to face financial crises and limited job prospects. It is disheartening to see the potential of the younger generation restricted by the lack of completion and dedication to this essential project.

However, I am pleased to acknowledge that the current SKM government has recognized the significance of the "Stairways to Heaven" project and is diligently working towards reviving and giving new dimensions to the Daramdin constituency. Under their leadership, there is renewed hope for justice to be served to the Lepchas of Sikkim and a revival of the economic potential of Daramdin.

I urge you to reflect upon the opportunity that was missed during your tenure and take responsibility for the incomplete state of the project. We feel cheated by SDF government for 25 years despite of casting our votes for SDF candidate for 25 years. It is my hope that you feel guilty for the way you have cheated the people of Daramdin.

As citizens of Sikkim, it is our collective responsibility to ensure the rightful development and well-being of all communities, including the Lepchas. I believe that through cooperation and determination, we can rectify the mistakes of the past and work towards a brighter future for Daramdin and the Lepcha community.

Phur Tshering Lepcha

Lunchok, Daramdin constituency

(ptlepcha11@outlook.com)