The inaugural Kongchen Dorjee Award turned into a powerful platform for reflection and community solidarity as SIBLAC Convenor and BJP Advisor Tseten Tashi Bhutia received the honour from the Sikkim Indigenous Lepcha Tribal Association (SILTA). While the event celebrated his long-standing service, Bhutia used the moment to issue a heartfelt call for unity, fairness and stronger constitutional safeguards for Sikkim’s indigenous communities. Bhutia, who has worked closely with the Sikkim Indigenous Bhutia-Lepcha Advisory Council, told the gathering that he accepted the recognition “with a heartfelt feeling” and prayers for the well-being of the people. He said the award belonged not only to him but also to everyone contributing to the preservation of Sikkim’s cultural and social fabric. His speech quickly shifted to what he described as the pressing concerns of the present time — protecting Sikkim’s identity, ensuring constitutional fairness and safeguarding Article 371F, a provision central to the state’s distinct political and cultural status.
He urged Sikkimese youth, families, voters, religious groups and entrepreneurs to stand together as the state undergoes demographic and political shifts. Reflecting on Sikkim’s fifty years as part of India, Bhutia said this was a moment to “accept the truth, both good and bad”, emphasising that every action in public life carries consequences. He said a small population must stay vigilant to protect its heritage and warned against complacency in the face of emerging challenges. Bhutia also appealed for equality and respect across society. “Writers, teachers, artists, professionals and employees must get equal respect,” he said, arguing that fairness in public life was essential for harmony. He questioned why certain constitutional rights had not been fully implemented and why some communities still struggled for equal treatment, urging leaders across party lines to address these gaps collectively.
Calling Sikkimese Nepali, Bhutia and Lepcha communities “one people”, he cautioned that no one should divide them along caste, faith or community lines. He stressed that Article 371F must be defended through unity and dialogue, not isolated protests, and encouraged wider discussion on issues such as representation, certification processes and the demand for a Tamang seat. Bhutia revealed that his committee had completed surveys and prepared a report identifying areas in need of correction or legal clarification to better protect the rights of indigenous communities. He said meaningful change would only come through constructive engagement.