Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) leader Komal Chamling, daughter of former Chief Minister Pawan Chamling, has urged the state government to prioritise women’s safety over political differences amid rising cases of online harassment targeting women leaders. “Women’s safety must come before politics,” she asserted during a press briefing in Gangtok on Monday. Expressing concern over the growing menace of cyberbullying and sexual harassment on social media, Komal said that the trend is especially alarming for women leaders belonging to opposition parties. On October 27, an SDF delegation met the State Women’s Commission, the Director General of Police (DGP), and the Home Secretary, submitting a memorandum over two recent cases involving SDF spokesperson Yojana Khaling and opposition leader Reema Chappagai, both victims of online abuse.
“We did not go there as party representatives but as women demanding safety. Every woman in Sikkim deserves dignity and protection,” Komal stated. While the Women’s Commission assured prompt action, the DGP’s office reportedly cited procedural delays, attributing them to jurisdictional complexities involving international social media platforms like Facebook. Komal criticised the delay, saying that such excuses often lead to denial of justice. “When the ruling party files a complaint, action is immediate. But when opposition members seek help, even FIRs are delayed or ignored. This double standard is unacceptable,” she remarked.
The SDF leader also alleged that several of the abusive online accounts appear to be indirectly linked to individuals supporting the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM). “If SKM truly has no connection, why hesitate to assist in identifying the culprits? Their silence raises serious questions,” she said. Meanwhile, Yojana Khaling, who faced explicit threats and derogatory remarks online, expressed deep distress over the inaction and urged authorities to ensure accountability.