In a major step toward securing Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for 12 left-out communities in Sikkim, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Thursday chaired the fourth and final meeting of the Sikkim State High-Level Committee (SSHLC) in Gangtok. The SSHLC, formed in December 2024, was tasked with conducting ethnographic studies and field research to assess the eligibility of the communities based on the Government of India’s criteria. The final report, shaped through rigorous stakeholder consultations, will now be submitted to the Centre.
The meeting saw participation from Cabinet ministers, MLAs, researchers, community leaders, and senior officials. Discussions focused on the communities’ unique cultural, historical, and socio-political characteristics, with parallels drawn to similar groups in Northeast India that already enjoy ST recognition. CM Tamang emphasized that the demand is a step toward socio-political justice, not just legal acknowledgment. He also announced plans to establish an Ethnographic and Tribal Museum in the state, which will document and preserve the indigenous heritage of Sikkim’s diverse communities.
The government plans to engage national leaders and push for expedited action, while community organizations will intensify advocacy efforts. CM Tamang reaffirmed his government’s full commitment to the cause.