Veteran journalist Bijay Bantawa passes away

GANGTOK,: Veteran journalist Bijay Bantawa, also an accomplished litterateur, passed away on the early morning hours of October 28 at his native Salem Bung village near Pokhrebung in Darjeeling. He was 71 years old.

A widely respected name in journalism, Bantawa served journalism and literature for nearly five decades.

Batwana was born on 20^th April 1956 at Salem Bung, formerly known as Sulbung, in Darjeeling district. He came to Sikkim around 1976-77 where he initially worked as a non-teaching staff at Sikkim Government College while continuing his studies. He completed his BA (Honours) through Punjab University and later obtained a Law degree.

Although he briefly explored legal practice, Bijay Bantawa chose journalism, driven by his desire to serve society and remain connected with people. His journalistic journey began with the Nepali weekly Himali Bela, where he learned the fundamentals of reporting and newspaper production during the letterpress era. He later served as the editor of Nepali newspaper ‘Himgiri’, published from Gangtok.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay expressed his deep sadness on the passing of veteran journalist Bijay Bantawa.

“Deeply saddened by the passing of veteran journalist, writer and poet Shri Bijay Bantawa. His invaluable contributions to Sikkim’s media and literary fraternity, spanning several decades, will always be remembered. Heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family, friends and the entire media fraternity. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said the Chief Minister in his condolence message.

Bijay Bantawa was the founding General Secretary of Press Club of Sikkim and has received many awards, recognition in the field of journalism and literary works. He is a recipient of the prestigious Kanchenjunga Kalam Puraskar of Press Club of Sikkim.

He witnessed and adapted to major changes in journalism, from hand-set type and printing presses to computers, the internet and digital media. He was also associated with the Indian Federation of Small and Medium Newspapers and the PIB’s Central Press Accreditation Committee.

His efforts to take ‘Himgiri’ online in the early internet era reflected his openness to new technology. His book ‘Patrakaritako Pakshaharu’ documented his experience and aspects of Indian Nepali journalism.

His contribution to journalism and literature in Sikkim will be remembered with respect.

The Journalists Union of Sikkim (JUS) held a condolence meeting at its office to pay tribute to the late senior journalist and litterateur Bijay Bantawa.

JUS president Prabin Khaling, advisor Bhim Rawat and executive member Bijoy Gurung shared their fond recollections of the veteran journalist and recalled his invaluable contributions to the media landscape of Sikkim.

The JUS gathering observed a two-minute silence and offered prayers in memory and respect of Late Bijay Bantawa.