Sikkim CM Declares February 26 as Annual Holiday to Honor Khas Community

KalimNews, February 27, 2025, Kolkata: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has announced that February 26 will be observed as a government holiday every year in honor of the Khas community. The declaration was made during the 30th Foundation Day celebrations of the Akhil Sikkim Khas Chettri Bahun Kalyan Sangh at Kyongsa Ground in Gyalshing district, where he attended as the chief guest.

Extending his congratulations and best wishes to the community, the Chief Minister expressed his delight at the grand celebration organized under the Sangh’s banner. He emphasized that since the formation of the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government, all communities in Sikkim have been progressing towards unity. Criticizing previous governments for allegedly attempting to divide the Khas community, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to their welfare.

CM Tamang underscored that the Khas community has been a vital force behind Sikkim’s progress and assured that any attempts to create divisions would not succeed. He stated that his government stands firmly with the Khas people and will not allow the unity of Sikkim to be disrupted.

The Chief Minister also addressed the ongoing efforts to secure tribal status for 12 left-out communities in Sikkim. He informed that a crucial meeting regarding this matter was held in Delhi on February 10. Additionally, he condemned the alleged attempts by opposition parties to create discord, referencing a controversial video by Sampson Tamang. He confirmed that the accused had been arrested and that further names involved in the conspiracy would be disclosed soon.

Reaffirming his government’s commitment to preserving and promoting all ethnic cultures, CM Tamang announced the continued construction of community buildings, support for Sanskrit and Gurukul schools, and the issuance of government notifications in the Nepali language. He also firmly stated that Sikkim and Darjeeling would not merge under any circumstances, countering claims propagated by the opposition for political mileage.

The declaration of February 26 as a public holiday to honor the Khas community’s cultural heritage and contributions has been widely welcomed as a significant step toward cultural inclusivity. The holiday will be officially observed from next year onwards, reinforcing the government’s commitment to preserving Sikkim’s diverse traditions and fostering unity among its people.