The Sikkim State High-Level Committee (SSHLC) held a crucial meeting at Sikkim House, New Delhi, today, focusing on securing Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for 12 left-out communities. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang reiterated his government’s strong commitment to the cause, emphasizing that ST recognition is both a constitutional right and essential for preserving cultural heritage.
Addressing representatives of the 12 communities, CM Tamang acknowledged their long-standing struggle for recognition and stressed the socio-economic benefits of ST status. He urged all stakeholders to remain proactive in addressing queries from the Government of India and ensuring all procedural requirements are met.”The aspirations of these communities have always been close to my heart. Their inclusion in the ST list is crucial for protecting their traditions and securing their rightful place in our state’s socio-economic framework,” Tamang stated.
He expressed appreciation for the resilience of community representatives and praised the SSHLC, domain experts, and social welfare officials for compiling comprehensive documentation to strengthen the case. He also thanked his Cabinet colleagues, MPs, MLAs, and advisors for their unwavering support. CM Tamang assured that his government will continue advocating at every level to fulfill this long-pending demand.