After four months, the video capturing former Secretary Raju Basnet’s contentious remarks comparing Chogyal to Babur and the Bhutia community to descendants of Mughals has resurfaced, sparking renewed outrage and scrutiny. The revelation comes with an additional layer of concern for the people of Sikkim: Basnet, despite these allegations, was chosen as the SKM Party Candidate of Namcheybong Constituency. This development raises pertinent questions about the direction of Sikkimese politics and the standards set for political representation.
The circulating video has reignited public condemnation of Basnet’s disparaging comments made during a meeting advocating tribal status for 12 ethnic groups in Sikkim. Particularly alarming is the presence of Chief Minister PS Golay during Basnet’s statements, prompting inquiries into Golay’s stance and potential endorsement of such divisive rhetoric.
Critics have pointed out the implications of rewarding Basnet with a party ticket despite the controversy surrounding his conduct. The decision to nominate him as a candidate for the Namcheybong Constituency has sparked concerns about the party’s values and the message it sends to the electorate. Many Sikkimese citizens are questioning the integrity and inclusivity of the political process, fearing the normalisation of discriminatory attitudes within the government ranks.
As the video continues to circulate and public scrutiny intensifies, Chief Minister PS Golay faces mounting pressure to address the issue and provide clarity on his stance regarding Basnet’s remarks. The situation underscores the need for accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership in Sikkim’s political landscape.
Moving forward, the electorate eagerly awaits responses from both Basnet and Golay, as their reactions will likely shape public perception and influence the course of political discourse in the region. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding values of respect, inclusion, and unity in a diverse society like Sikkim.
