Droupadi Murmu confers President’s Police Colour on Sikkim Police

NAWDEEP SHARMA

GANGTOK,: Sikkim Police was on Thursday conferred the prestigious ‘President’s Police Colour’ by President Droupadi Murmu during a grand ceremonial parade at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok.

The honour, also known as the Rashtriya Nishan, is regarded as the highest recognition awarded to a police force in the country. With this achievement, Sikkim became the 15th State in India and the third State in the Northeast to receive the distinction.

The ceremonial “Alankaran Parade” was attended by Governor Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, cabinet ministers, senior officials, police officers, personnel and invited dignitaries.

President Murmu reviewed the parade alongside Director General of Police Akshay Sachdeva before presenting the insignia to the force.

Addressing the gathering, the President congratulated Sikkim Police for the achievement and praised the parade contingent for its impressive performance.

She noted that Sikkim Police, established in 1897 to safeguard the Indo-Tibet trade route, has played a crucial role in maintaining peace, security and justice in the State over the decades. Apart from law enforcement, she said the force has also contributed significantly during disasters and public emergencies.

Highlighting the evolving nature of policing, President Murmu stressed the importance of moving away from colonial-era policing practices and adopting a people-centric approach focused on public service, accountability and trust.

She also emphasised sensitivity towards women and children, stating that police personnel must understand public concerns and work towards resolving them to strengthen harmony and respect for the law.

Praising the people-friendly image of Sikkim Police, the President said the force has earned the trust and affection of citizens through its professional and humane conduct. She further observed that with the growing number of tourists visiting Sikkim every year, the responsibility of the police force has become even more significant.

The President also raised concerns over the increasing threat of cybercrime and online fraud and urged police personnel to strengthen their expertise in technology, cybersecurity and digital investigation.

Expressing confidence in the force, she said Sikkim Police would continue to uphold the dignity and honour associated with the President’s Colours with dedication and patriotism.

Inspector General of Police Hem Raj Rai described the occasion as a “historic and emotional moment” for the force. He said the recognition remains a rare and once-in-a-lifetime honour for any police organisation.

Tracing the journey of the force, he said Sikkim Police began as a small outpost at Rhenock in 1897 with only a few constables and has now grown into a force of nearly 7,000 personnel.

Superintendent of Police Tseten Paljor Bhutia said the honour reflected the dedication, discipline, courage and selfless service of Sikkim Police in maintaining peace and harmony in the State.

Meanwhile, constable Bandana Rai, who participated in the parade, described the occasion as unforgettable.

“We had only read about such ceremonies earlier, but this was the first time the President’s Colour came to Sikkim. Representing our team on such a prestigious occasion felt truly honourable,” she said.