Tensions flare in Sikkim as the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) accuses the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) of impeding the rollout of the State Regularisation Policy 2024. The policy, announced on February 9th, seeks to formalize the employment status of temporary government workers who completed four years of service by December 31, 2023. During a press briefing on February 15th, SKM’s Political Secretary, Jacob Khaling, lauded Chief Minister PS Golay for championing the policy, framing it as a crucial stride towards uplifting the state’s underprivileged populace. Khaling lambasted the SDF, alleging deliberate obstruction through misinformation campaigns and bureaucratic sluggishness in disseminating official memoranda.
Countering accusations of electoral opportunism levied by the SDF, Khaling underscored SKM’s consistent dedication to the public’s welfare since ascending to power in 2019. He cited past endeavors in regularizing temporary workers across sectors, reaffirming the government’s pledge to equitable treatment sans prejudice. In addition, Khaling rebuffed SDF’s skepticism surrounding the establishment of new universities in Sikkim, denouncing it as unfounded. He further challenged Bhaichung Bhutia, the SDF’s spokesperson, regarding remarks on SKM’s electoral viability.
In response, SDF representatives defended their position, asserting genuine concerns for citizen welfare. They scrutinized SKM’s policy transparency and effectiveness, particularly in education, while highlighting their own youth-centric initiatives.
