Sikkim: 12 Left-Out Communities in ST List Soon? What Did the High Level Committee Decide?

Sikkim CM suggested that the SSHLC formulate a set of recommendations to engage with government agencies and facilitate further action

The fourth and final meeting of the Sikkim State High-Level Committee (SSHLC) for the inclusion of 12 left-out communities in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) list was held at Chintan Bhawan in Gangtok yesterday. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang noted that the SSHLC had presented its final report, marking the conclusion of a process that began in December 2024.

The Chief Minister highlighted the key proposals within the report, including the peace dividends, the interpretation of an inclusive Sikkimese identity, and comparisons with constitutional frameworks in other northeastern states. He stated that these aspects had strengthened the case for the inclusion of the 12 communities in the ST list.

The report, based on detailed ethnographic research and analysis, was compiled with inputs from experts, community representatives, and researchers. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang suggested that the SSHLC formulate a set of recommendations to engage with government agencies and facilitate further action. He also encouraged community organizations to discuss the findings with youths and social workers to initiate broader social and intellectual engagement.

SSHLC Chairman Professor BV Sharma expressed gratitude to the government and the committee members for their dedication. He emphasized the meticulous research that had gone into the report, stating that every word was carefully chosen to ensure accuracy. He also acknowledged the crucial role played by researchers from the communities in compiling the data.

Vice Chairman Professor Mahendra P Lama outlined the key points of the report, emphasizing the importance of ST status for the left-out communities. He elaborated on several critical topics, including:

1. Sikkim’s unique history, geographical positioning, and its 50 years of merger with India.
2. The executive summary of the ethnographic reports of the 12 left-out communities.
3. A comparative analysis of constitutional provisions for tribal communities in the Northeast.
4. Pre- and post-merger governance structures in Sikkim.
5. The role of indigenous communities in maintaining peace and stability.
6. Provisions under the Government of India Act, 1935, relating to excluded areas.
7. The need for income tax exemptions for these communities, is in line with other tribal groups in the Northeast.

Chairman of EICCOS+1, Dr Shiva Rai, praised the efforts of community representatives in compiling ethnographic reports. He stressed the importance of grassroots awareness and discussed the relevance of Article 371F(g) of the Indian Constitution, which pertains to Sikkim’s special status.

Social Welfare Department Secretary and SSHLC Member Secretary Sarika Pradhan, in her welcome address, underscored the significance of this meeting in advancing the recognition of the 12 excluded communities. She highlighted that the primary focus was the submission of the final report to the Government of Sikkim.

The meeting concluded with the presentation of the ethnographic reports by experts, followed by feedback from representatives of the 12 communities. This marks a significant step in securing constitutional recognition and social justice for the left-out communities of Sikkim.

Also Read: Centre Sanctions Over Rs 555 Crore for Sikkim’s GLOF Recovery and Reconstruction

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