Sikkim-Darjeeling Merger: From A State To A District?

SD TSHERING Retd Director General, DESM&E

The proposed merger of Sikkim and Darjeeling has sparked intense debate, raising questions about its potential social, economic, and political ramifications. Drawing parallels from the Jammu and Kashmir reorganization, it is likely that the special privileges granted to Sikkim under Article 371F could be abolished. This merger could fundamentally alter the fabric of both regions, reshaping their demographics, economies, and political landscapes.

Demographic Dynamics: A Tale of Two Regions

The demographic data reveals a stark contrast between Sikkim and Darjeeling. With a population of 6,10,577 (2011), Sikkim is significantly smaller than Darjeeling, which boasts 18,46,823 residents. This threefold difference in population size suggests that Sikkim’s identity could be overshadowed in a merged entity. The Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Scheduled Caste (SC) populations in Sikkim would face intense competition for resources, as Darjeeling’s ST and SC populations are substantially larger. For instance, Darjeeling’s SC population is fourteen times that of Sikkim, which could lead to Sikkim’s communities losing access to vital resources and facilities.

The fertility rates further complicate the picture. Sikkim’s low fertility rate of 1.1 (2022) is already below replacement level, while Darjeeling’s rate of 2.1 indicates a growing population. Over time, this disparity could lead to Sikkim’s indigenous communities being marginalized, with their cultural and political influence diminishing.

Urbanization and Migration: A Double-Edged Sword

The population density of Darjeeling (586 per sq km) is far higher than that of Sikkim (86 per sq km). A merger could trigger a wave of migration from Darjeeling to Sikkim, leading to rapid urbanization and overcrowding in Sikkim’s towns. Rural areas might also see an influx of migrants seeking cheaper land and agricultural opportunities. While this could spur economic activity, it might also strain Sikkim’s infrastructure and resources.

Administrative Reorganization: Power Shift to Darjeeling

The administrative landscape would undergo a seismic shift post-merger. With Darjeeling’s population dominating, most government offices, sub-divisions, and district-level facilities would likely be concentrated in Darjeeling. If Kalimpong district is taken as a benchmark with a population 2.51 lakhs most new created districts will fall in Darjeeling region. Sikkim, with its smaller population, would see its administrative influence wane, forcing its residents to travel longer distances for government services. The creation of new districts would also favor Darjeeling, with Sikkim potentially being reduced to just a few districts within the merged entity.

Economic Disparities: Development vs. Neglect

Economically, the two regions are worlds apart. Sikkim’s per capita income (?1,94,624 in 2013-14) far exceeds Darjeeling’s (?87,695), reflecting the stark development gap. While Sikkim has benefited from central government funds and infrastructure projects, Darjeeling has languished under perceived neglect by the West Bengal government. The Gorkhas of Darjeeling argue that a separate state would allow them to better manage their resources and address regional needs.

However, a merger could exacerbate these disparities. With Darjeeling’s larger population and political clout, most funds and development projects would likely be directed toward Darjeeling, leaving Sikkim with the leftovers. The competitive and enterprising youth of Darjeeling, already better prepared for government jobs, would dominate employment opportunities, further marginalizing Sikkim’s youth.

Political Implications: A New Power Equation

The political fallout of the merger would be profound. With Darjeeling’s population outnumbering Sikkim’s, political power would inevitably shift to Darjeeling. The abolition of Article 371F would eliminate reserved seats for Bhutia-Lepchas, eroding their political influence. The Nepali community in Sikkim would face stiff competition from their Darjeeling counterparts, and the caste dynamics within the Nepali community would undergo significant changes.

The delimitation of constituencies would further disadvantage Sikkim. With Darjeeling’s population dominating, most assembly seats, panchayat wards, and municipal bodies would be concentrated in Darjeeling. Even at the national level, Sikkim’s voice in Parliament would be drowned out by Darjeeling’s larger electorate.

Cultural Identity: A Sacrifice Too Great?

Historically, Darjeeling was part of Sikkim, but centuries of separation have created distinct social, economic, and political identities. For the people of Sikkim, the prospect of losing their statehood and being reduced to a district is deeply unsettling. While they empathize with Darjeeling’s struggles, the idea of sacrificing their statehood for a merged identity is a bitter pill to swallow.

Conclusion: A Merger of Unequals?

The proposed Sikkim-Darjeeling merger is fraught with challenges. While it promises development for Darjeeling, it threatens to undermine Sikkim’s identity, resources, and political autonomy. The demographic, economic, and political disparities between the two regions make a merger an unequal proposition. For Sikkim, the cost of losing its statehood may be too high a price to pay.

As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: any decision must carefully balance the aspirations of both regions, ensuring that neither is left behind in the quest for progress.

(Views are personal)