During a spirited election speech at the Vijay Bhava: Jan Sabha, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang made startling accusations against the former Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) government, alleging their involvement in the forced departure of the 17th Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, from India, branding him as a Chinese agent. Tamang’s assertions, made in the backdrop of upcoming elections, highlighted the contentious issue of the Karmapa’s exile and sought to rally support from various constituencies including Barfung, Rangang-Yangang, Timi Namphing, and Tumin Lingee.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Tamang committed the next five years of his tenure to the welfare of the people of Sikkim, emphasizing the importance of tribal representation in the government and advocating for the return of the 17th Karmapa to his homeland. He criticized former Chief Minister Pawan Chamling for allegedly promising to dispatch 4000 lamas to the Dominican Republic to meet with the Karmapa, dismissing it as a deceptive tactic.
Tamang further alleged that the SDF party’s 2005 report, which labeled the 17th Karmapa as a Chinese agent, ultimately led to his exile from India, implicating the former government in the matter. He contrasted his party’s unwavering support for the Karmapa, evident in their manifesto, with the SDF’s previous reluctance to do so. Tamang claimed proactive efforts from his administration to facilitate the Karmapa’s return, including engagements with Union Ministers Rajnath Singh, Kiren Rijiju, and Home Minister Amit Shah.
Highlighting a symbolic gesture, Tamang mentioned the grant of a cabinet post to the Sangha seat MLA by the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government, a gesture not extended by the previous administration, urging Lama voters to recognize his party’s support for them. He contrasted this with what he described as neglect under the SDF regime.
