JAC wants rectification in Finance Act 2023 in monsoon session of Parliament

DICHEN ONGMU, EOI, GANGTOK, APRIL 11, 2023 : The Joint Action Council spearheading the agitation on a clear definition of the term ‘Sikkimese’ and protection to Article 371F of the Constitution has rejected the resolution passed in the Sikkim Assembly on Monday on amendments to the Finance Act 2023 which is said to have diluted the Sikkimese identity. 

JAC leader Passang Sherpa questioned on Tuesday the intention of the Sikkim Krantikri Morcha government, saying it was questionable. 

“They are still requesting the Centre. Instead they should be demanding it. It’s our special right which we acquired in1975. We should stop acting like beggars,” he said. 

JAC further placed two demands, asking the Governor of Sikkim to come up with an ordinance using powers under Clause (g) of Article 371F and also a written assurance from the Finance Ministry stating that the rectification of the Finance Act2023 should be brought in the coming monsoon session. Commenting on the all party committee to ensure conservation of Article 371F, 

Sherpa said it was an eye-wash, since the 8 May Agreement, Government of Sikkim Act 1974 and Article 371F defined the Sikkimese identity with utmost transparency. 

Both BJP and the SKM should now establish their stand towards Sikkim and Sikkimese, asserted JAC. Meanwhile, Santa Pradhan President JAC resigned from his post, citing health conditions as the reason for his resignation