SKM-SDF in war of words... SKM condemns Chamling statement; SDF defends CM, says He were misquoted

SNS, Gangtok, 27 July 2014: Chief Minister Pawan Chamling’s statement to divert all development schemes to south and west districts has sparked fresh controversy with both ruling SDF and the Opposition SKM party sparring over his word.

Days after Chamling allegedly said all the development programmes will be shifted to south and west districts ignoring the east and north districts as people voted for the SKM in these regions in the recent elections, SDF hits back terming the statement as un-parliamentary, unconstitutional and irresponsible.

SKM legislator, Kunga Nima Lepcha on Saturday said the statement was unfortunate and condemnable. “If such a state of affairs continues, it has the potential to jeopardize the entire administration of the state,” he said. Lepcha also questioned the Lok Sabha MPs raking Article 371 F in the parliament.

Attacking back on Lepcha, SDF spokesperson, PD Rai, said the present controversy is to distort the reality. Reiterating his party’s stance on protection of Article 371F, Rai accused Lepcha of attempting to obfuscate the issue for vested interests.

Mr Rai said Chamling was thanking the people of South and West Districts for voting the party to powerfor a record fifth term which had been distorted and misquoted.

“Lepcha has not understood the Chief Minister's words or mine. He should first make his stand clear," he said.