GANGTOK — Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has delivered a sharp rebuke to the opposition, asserting that his government is fully capable of leading the state without any unwanted “instructions.” Speaking at a public gathering, the Chief Minister’s comments, while not directly naming the Citizen Action Party (CAP), were widely seen as a direct response to the party’s recent criticisms of the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM). The remarks have further fuelled the ongoing political tensions in the Himalayan state.
In a fiery speech, Tamang took a jibe at his detractors, comparing their advice to a primary school student attempting to teach a master’s degree holder. “We know very well how to run Sikkim and serve our people. We don’t need to be taught by those who are only studying up to class five,” he said, drawing applause from the crowd. He also criticised what he described as “online warriors” who are disconnected from the ground reality. “They hide for six days a week and only come online on Facebook one day. Such people cannot truly connect with the government or understand our work,” Tamang stated. He went on to question the opposition’s ambition, remarking, “Even though they say they have shifted to the right, they haven’t really moved. Yet, they stubbornly want to win all 32 seats.”
The Chief Minister also shared a personal anecdote, highlighting his unwavering dedication to public service. “When I was released from jail, I did not waste a single day. I will serve the people of Sikkim with all my heart,” he declared. He further promised to continue his grassroots approach, visiting every village on foot to engage directly with the populace. Urging the public to make a discerning choice, he challenged them to vote for those who work “24 hours a day,” not for those who are merely “on Facebook one day a week.” Tamang also threw down a gauntlet to the opposition, demanding they provide “proof of your work and service.” He concluded his address with a strong message, stating, “Our reply is not just words. Otherwise, there is no shortcut to progress.”
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