Sikkim BJP condemns divisive remarks against Khas community, demands strongest legal action

GANGTOK, : Sikkim BJP on Sunday has recorded its strong condemnation of the alleged ‘divisive, casteist, and racist’ remarks made by one Samson Tamang against the Khas community of Sikkim and Darjeeling.

His derogatory and hateful statements are an attack on the social harmony that defines our region and must be met with zero tolerance, said State BJP media in-charge Niren Bhandari in a press statement.

“The people of Sikkim have always stood for unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. Any attempt to spread hatred against any community is deeply condemnable and unacceptable. The Khas community, like every other community in Sikkim, has contributed immensely to the progress and development of the State. Any attempt to demean or insult them is an insult to the entire Sikkimese society,” said the State BJP functionary.

Bhandari contended that the individual appears to have close proximity with leaders of ruling SKM.

“It is deeply concerning that Samson Tamang seems to have close proximity with leaders of the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM). His proximity to influential figures raises serious questions about the ideological direction of the SKM party and government,” said Bhandari.

The Sikkim BJP media in-charge maintained that the ruling SKM cannot remain silent on this matter and must clarify its stand.

“The ruling party cannot remain silent on this matter. The people of Sikkim deserve to know whether they endorse or reject such hateful rhetoric. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) must immediately issue a statement condemning these remarks and assure the public that such divisive elements will not be tolerated,” demanded Bhandari.

He further demanded strongest legal action against the accused person as hate speech and caste-based insults threaten the region’s social fabric.

“We demand that the authorities take immediate and strict legal action against him under appropriate sections of the law, including those related to promoting enmity among communities and caste-based discrimination,” said Bhandari.

Bhandari asserted that there is no place for hate politics in Sikkim.

“BJP Sikkim firmly believes that Sikkim belongs to all communities, and no individual, group, or political outfit should be allowed to sow discord among our people. We urge all political parties, social organizations, and responsible citizens to stand united against such divisive forces.”

“We expect immediate and decisive action from the government and the ruling party. BJP Sikkim stands with the Khas community and all communities that believe in peace, respect, and equality. We will continue to fight against any attempt to divide the people of Sikkim along caste, racial, or religious lines,” said the Sikkim BJP media in-charge.

Meanwhile, a Khas welfare organisation has lodged a complaint against the accused person at Gyalshing police station for his alleged derogatory social media video remarks against the Khas community.

The accused is said to a resident from Rangli Rangliot region of Darjeeling and is accused of insulting the religious beliefs and practices of the Khas community.

Pic: Niren Bhandari