Appeal to Safeguard Nepali-Origin Sikkimese Citizens
The Former Members of Parliament (Sikkim) Forum has sent a formal petition to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting urgent steps to protect the rights of the Nepali community in Sikkim.
The forum emphasized the historical and legal identity of Nepali-origin Sikkimese, who were recognized as official subjects during the Chogyal’s reign before Sikkim merged with India in 1975.
Sikkim Subject Register and Citizenship
According to the forum, many Nepali-origin individuals were listed in the Sikkim Subject Register, created under the Sikkim Subject Regulation of 1961. This register played a key role in defining citizenship rights after Sikkim officially became a part of India on April 26, 1975.
Constitutional Backing: Article 371F
The petition highlights various protective clauses under Article 371F of the Indian Constitution—particularly clauses (f), (k), (l), (m), (n), and (o). These clauses were designed to preserve the cultural identity and special status of Sikkimese citizens, including those of Nepali heritage.
The forum argues that these legal safeguards must be fully enforced to protect the legacy and rightful status of the original Sikkimese subjects.
Demand to Restore Reserved Legislative Seat
The forum also asked the central government to restore the reserved legislative seat that was once allocated to the Nepali Subject Holders during the Chogyal era. This reserved seat in the State Legislative Assembly was meant to ensure representation for Sikkimese Nepali citizens before the state’s merger with India.
Repeated Appeals for Justice
This is not the first time the issue has been raised. The forum has earlier approached both the Governor and Chief Minister of Sikkim seeking corrective action.
A copy of the current petition has also been forwarded to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, showing the forum’s strong intent to gain central attention on this matter of constitutional importance.
Conclusion: Call for Constitutional Commitment
The Former MPs Forum stressed that protecting Nepali-origin Sikkimese citizens is not only a legal duty but a constitutional promise. They urged the central leadership to uphold the unique identity of Sikkim, as outlined in the Indian Constitution, and ensure justice for all communities recognized before the state’s merger.
