GANGTOK, August 19, 2025 —A group of students from Sikkim University has filed a complaint at Ranipool Police Station concerning allegedly derogatory comments made by Mr. Raj Shekhar in the Department of Commerce’s official WhatsApp group.
In their complaint, students allege that Mr. raj Shekhar referred to the Nepali language as a “foreign language” and suggested that Nepali speakers “should go to Nepal.” They described these remarks as hurtful and disrespectful toward the Nepali-speaking community and inconsistent with the values of unity and cultural respect outlined in the Indian Constitution. Screenshots of the WhatsApp conversation were submitted as evidence.
The Sikkim University Students’ Association (SUSA) strongly condemned the remarks and urged the university administration—including the Vice Chancellor and Registrar—to investigate and take appropriate disciplinary action.
The student at the center of the controversy has issued an apology via a formal video statement and handwritten letter, which has been acknowledged by some segments of the student community, though the issue continues to attract attention.
The Press Club of Sikkim issued a statement criticizing the remarks as insensitive and ignorant. They emphasized that Nepali is one of India’s Constitutionally recognized languages, carrying both cultural and historical significance, and urged Sikkim University to take proper measures and foster awareness and respect for linguistic diversity.
As of now, the police have not confirmed whether the complaint has been officially registered.
