Gangtok, Dec 14 : The Sikkim Assembly has officially ratified the final report of the Sikkim State High-Level Committee (SSHLC), which calls for granting tribal status to 12 long-ignored communities.
These twelve communities of Sikkim that have been seeking inclusion in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list, often referred to as the ‘left-out’ communities, are:
Bhujel, Gurung, Jogi (also known as Sanyasi/Giri/Jogi),Kirat Khambu Rai, Kirat Dewan (Yakha), Khas (Chettri-Bahun), Mangar, Newar, Sanyashi, Sunuwar (Mukhia), Thami, Majhi
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang introduced the pivotal resolution on Friday, hailing it as a momentous stride towards justice and recognition for these communities.
“Our government has approached this issue with sincerity, expertise, and a commitment to ensuring that every community in Sikkim receives their rights,” stated CM Tamang.
He contrasted his administration’s action with the previous SDF regime, which he accused of keeping the issue politically charged and unresolved. Tamang highlighted that his government took decisive steps by establishing a committee of national experts in November 2024 to tackle the matter.
“The committee’s comprehensive report, prepared with careful research and consultation, was placed before the House with the aim of securing long-awaited tribal status for the 12 left-out indigenous communities,” the Chief Minister emphasized.
Following the assembly’s definitive approval, the SSHLC report will now be sent to the Central Government for final consideration. Tamang concluded by commending the members of the committee, experts, and representatives from all indigenous communities for their crucial cooperation and support throughout the process.
