Gangtok: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang launched a sharp critique against opposition parties, particularly the Citizen Action Party, questioning their political viability and reliance on digital platforms.
He cast doubt on the party’s stability, referencing the departure of its president, Bharat Basnett, and founder, Ganesh Rai, stating, “What kind of party is it when the president leaves? If there was anything left in it, they probably wouldn’t have left.”
Tamang asserted that effective politics requires more than online presence, emphasizing, “Politics is not done by going live on Facebook. To do politics, one must reach the doorsteps of the people.”
Tamang further challenged the perceived credibility of politicians who depend on social media, dismissing the idea that online popularity equates to leadership. “You can’t be a politician just because you are on social media. If you want to be a politician, you have to live up to the people’s expectations,” he reiterated, while also stating, “Even if an artist gets many votes, that doesn’t automatically qualify them to lead or solve people’s problems.” He also derided the opposition’s rhetorical strategies, saying, “If you keep talking about knowledge, no one will listen to you. You can’t win hearts just by intellectual speeches. People want work, not lectures.”
Shifting focus to his administration’s accomplishments, Tamang highlighted the Central government-funded Unity Mall project, a Rs 106 crore initiative aimed at showcasing Sikkim’s cultural identity. “Just as Rajasthan showcases its culture, or Bihar celebrates its heritage, Sikkim too will present its identity and unity,” he explained, attributing the project’s progress to the dedicated efforts of state officials. He also mentioned infrastructure developments such as the ‘Golden Jubilee’ house and the beautification of MG Marg in Gangtok, crediting the Central government’s support and the Chief Secretary’s oversight.
Looking ahead, Tamang outlined plans for a jungle-themed orchid park, a library, and expanded local food courts, designed to promote Sikkimese and Nepali culinary diversity. “We are trying to bring all communities together and give tourists a taste of our unique identity,” he stated. Addressing urban challenges, particularly traffic congestion, he proposed solutions like controlled car ownership, improved urban planning, and increased parking capacity, referencing Bhutan’s approach to vehicle regulation. “We need to think like Bhutan — only permit new cars when old ones are phased out. But today, even monthly, Sikkim Motors sells over 100 vehicles and the city gets choked,” he noted.
Tamang also announced the construction of a new district-level electricity office in Pakyong and the operationalization of the West Point Mall in PPP mode, emphasizing the long-term economic benefits for the state. He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the Sikkimese people, stating, “We don’t care what people outside say. We care about our people, our Sikkimese voters. We are working for them.”
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