Time to Transcend Transient Tensions Neighbourly Rivalry

Darjeeling takes pride in its colonial-era institutions, global fame, and educational legacy. Sikkim boasts of its rapid economic transformation within a single generation. However, both must humbly acknowledge that Darjeeling’s legacy was largely shaped by British vision and infrastructure while Sikkim’s prosperity has been heavily reliant on Central funds. Both regions have benefited from historical accidents rather than purely indigenous enterprise.

This admission is not meant to diminish genuine achievements but to underscore the need for introspection. Beyond borrowed (not inherited) glory, both hills have much to celebrate such as our resilience in shaping our histories against immense odds, our sustainable coexistence with nature (preserving some of India’s most pristine landscapes), our contributions to Nepali literature, music, and art and our distinct yet complementary regional and ethnic identities. Our sporting achievements, from football to mountaineering and military legacy are a source of collective pride. Above all, the symbiotic kinship between Darjeeling and Sikkim remains our most valuable inheritance. Darjeeling nurtured Sikkim academically in its early statehood years, while Sikkim stood in solidarity with Darjeeling’s Gorkhaland aspirations.

However, today, a troubling animosity is beginning to boil between the two regions. While confined to a vocal minority, any toxicity spreads rapidly in this current age of social media, where reckless provocateurs and impressionable audiences amplify discord. If left unchecked, this hostility risks damaging decades of goodwill. That will be one of our greatest losses. To my mind, it is high time that we ponder a few points.

First, the debate over a Sikkim-Darjeeling unification should be approached with intellectual rigor, not emotive outbursts.Shutting down the discussion entirely not only reflects a closed mindset but also fosters absolutist politics, both of which contradict the spirit of democracy.It is often seen that many in Sikkim react by insisting that no one has the right to even raise the topic of unification. On the other hand, many, including educated voices from Darjeeling and Kalimpong, view the Sikkimese response to unification as overly defensive and unnecessarily rigid. Such intolerance is unfortunate. Healthy debate can broaden perspectives on both sides. However, the current tone marked by derision, vitriol and personal attacks is counterproductive.

Some of the proponents of unification have been unjustifiably impolite. Sadly, a leading political figure and respected public intellectual, who I would like to leave unnamed, recently unleashed an uncharacteristically furious tirade against Sikkim in a viral video. His words betrayed, not just disagreement, but ungovernable rage. Strong arguments need not rely on anger. The most compelling points are most often made with civility. Our future generations deserve a tradition of respectful public discourse, not one poisoned by hostility.

Arguments that undermine the dignity of a community or individual are indefensible. A recent article from Sikkim dismissed grievances of a few proponents of unification as mere "jealousy" and "deprivation." Such reductive analysis only deepens resentment. Critique must be rooted in facts, not stereotypes.

Secondly, political and civil society leaders on both sides must act as bridge-builders, not arsonists. Instead of pandering to populist rhetoric, they should foster civilized dialogue. The Gorkhaland movement and Sikkim’s unique constitutional status are sensitive issues but they need not be divisive. A shared cultural and historical narrative can coexist with distinct political aspirations.

Thirdly, the Sikkim government must resist the temptation to use heavy-handed measures against those voicing contentious opinions. Arresting individuals for seeking Sikkim’s attention, however misguided and objectionable their methods, only fuels alienation and enmity. Warnings and dialogue should precede punitive action. It is always advisable to ensure that long-term neighbourly relations are not sacrificed for short-term control.Sikkim really needs to decide its approach to dissent through consultation with experts.  Dialogue is a better option than immediate detention.

Fourthly,Darjeeling and Sikkim share more than borders. They share a history, culture and even intertwined destiny to some extent. Petty rivalries must not eclipse this reality. Let us channel our energies into collaborative progress, whether in tourism, education or environmental conservation rather than mutual vilification.

The British are long gone and Central funds alone cannot sustain prosperity. The true test of our legacy lies in how we preserve our brotherhood amid differences. The hills have always been stronger together. It is time we remembered that.

Fifthly, the younger generation must be empowered to become ambassadors of this shared brotherhood. Educational institutions, media and cultural bodies in both regions should actively foster platforms for inter-regional dialogue, exchange programs and collaborative creative projects. Our youth must learn the value of respectful engagement, critical thinking and historical empathy. If we fail to nurture these values, the vacuum will inevitably be filled with polarizing narratives that fracture, rather than fortify, our shared identity.

The hills do not need more bitterness. They need more bridges. Our unique landscapes teach us this wisdom on a daily basis.  Mountains stand tallest, not in isolation, but as ranges bound together. Our rivers flow transcending borders. Let us not squander the moral capital of generations who built bonds of kinship between Darjeeling and Sikkim through shared struggle, artand solidarity. History has granted us a rare fraternity. We must not let fleeting provocations undo what time and trust have so patiently woven together. The hills will remain strong and worthy of their legacy only if they stand together, with heads high and hearts open.

This verse from the poem of eminent playwright and veteran journalist Shri C.K. Shrestha serves as a powerful warning that we face far greater challenges together.

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Although bitter, the truth Morarji had once spoken,
Exposing our standing across the nation.
"Go to Nepal if you want land!"  here we are told,
"Nepalis, majority of foreign origin!"  there they are decreed.

“The debate over Sikkim-Darjeeling unification requires intellectual rigor, not emotional outbursts. Shutting down discussion reflects a closed mindset and fosters absolutist politics, both against democratic values. Many in Sikkim insist the topic shouldn’t be raised while many educated voices from Darjeeling and Kalimpong see this stance as overly defensive and rigid. Such intolerance is regrettable.”

jiwanr@gmail.com