BJP opposes sharp hike in Sikkim tourist permit fee

PANKAJ DHUNGEL

GANGTOK: The BJP-Sikkim has strongly opposed the proposed hike in tourist permit fees, alleging that the steep increase could hurt tourism and raise travel costs for visitors to the State.

Addressing a press conference in Gangtok on Monday, State BJP spokesperson Passang Gyali Sherpa said the Nathu La permit fee, earlier around Rs 200, is proposed to rise to Rs 2,000 for vehicles below 1,000cc, while the proposed permit for North Sikkim is around Rs 1,500.

The party also raised concerns over motorcycle permit charges, reportedly proposed at Rs 500 for local bikes and Rs 1,000 for outside-State bikes.

Sherpa termed the increase excessive and said the government should introduce any new fee gradually instead of imposing a steep charge at once.

The State BJP also questioned the proposed Integrated Online Permit System for RAP and PAP, particularly the involvement of private technology companies.The party demanded clarity on who will own the system, who will control visitor and vehicle data, and how information collected through geofencing will be protected.

Sherpa said the BJP supports a single-window digital permit system but insisted that ownership and control must remain with the government.He warned that the proposed hike could affect tourists, taxis, travel agencies, hotels and homestays, and said the party was prepared to protest or approach the courts if its concerns were not addressed.