Northeast Desk, 5th August: Sikkim MP Indra Hang Subba and Darjeeling MP Raju Bista recently met with Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Oram to advocate for the re-inclusion of Gorkha sub-tribes as Scheduled Tribes. Their meeting aimed to address historical injustices and ensure the protection of these communities’ rights.
Congratulating Oram on his appointment, the MPs emphasized the need to rectify the historical oversight affecting these sub-tribes. They detailed the administrative evolution of Darjeeling, Sikkim, and adjacent regions, which have experienced various governance frameworks, including classifications as Non-regulated Areas and Partially Excluded Areas since the 19th century.
The MPs highlighted that while other Partially Excluded Areas eventually received Scheduled Tribe status and protections after India’s independence, Darjeeling and Sikkim were excluded following Sikkim’s merger with India in 1975. They noted that Gorkha sub-tribes from Darjeeling and 12 sub-tribes from Sikkim were left out despite similar tribes gaining recognition elsewhere.
Subba and Bista stressed the urgency of re-including these sub-tribes to preserve their indigenous history, culture, and traditions. They called on Oram to prioritize this issue and expedite the process to protect the heritage of these communities.
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