The Sikkim Legislative Assembly on December 12 unanimously adopted a resolution endorsing the final report of the Sikkim State High-Level Committee, a move that advances the long-standing demand for Scheduled Tribe status for 12 indigenous communities in the state. The decision is seen as a significant step towards formal recognition and social justice for groups that have remained outside the constitutional framework for decades.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, who tabled the resolution, said the government approached the issue with seriousness and institutional discipline to ensure that legitimate rights were not denied to any community. He described the Assembly’s approval as a milestone in addressing a sensitive matter that had remained unresolved for years.
Taking a swipe at the previous SDF government, Tamang said the issue had been allowed to linger without resolution. He noted that his administration acted soon after coming to power by constituting a high-level committee of national experts in November 2024 to examine the demand comprehensively. The committee, he said, undertook detailed research and wide-ranging consultations before finalising its recommendations.
The report, now approved by the House, will be forwarded to the Centre for further consideration, marking the next stage in the process of securing tribal status for the 12 communities. The chief minister acknowledged the role played by committee members, subject experts and representatives of indigenous groups in contributing to the study.
The one-day Assembly session also witnessed the passage of eight amendment bills. With the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha holding all 32 seats in the House, proceedings concluded smoothly. Speaker MN Sherpa later adjourned the Assembly sine die, bringing the session to a close.
