MLA Candidate Ruden Lepcha Reaffirms Commitment to Civil Society at “Possible Tomorrow of Kalimpong” Programme Organised by UVC

Rudra Karki, KalimNews, Kalimpong, April 18, 2026 : In what marks a significant and unprecedented step in local democratic engagement, a legislative candidate in Kalimpong publicly presented his vision and commitments before the civil society for the very first time. This landmark initiative reflects a growing demand for transparency, accountability, and meaningful dialogue between leaders and citizens.

The event, titled “Possible Tomorrow of Kalimpong,” was organized by the United Veterans Club Kalimpong at the auditorium of Gorkha Dukha Niwarak Sammelan in the Kalimpong Town. It brought together members of civil society, representatives of various organizations, and prominent individuals, all united by a shared concern for the future of the region.

In his welcome address, the club’s secretary, Raju Tamang, stated that invitations had been extended to candidates from different political parties as well as independent contenders from Kalimpong. Among them, Ruden Sada Lepcha, the current MLA and candidate of the Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha, accepted the invitation and participated in the interactive session, today.

The programme, skillfully conducted by Dipesh Ghataney, focused on key sectors such as sports, healthcare, employment, education, and tourism. Notably, the structure of the discussion emphasized future action rather than past achievements. The candidate was required to respond to how he would address the concerns raised if elected, ensuring a forward-looking and solution-oriented dialogue.

Questions on sports were presented on behalf of Gorkha Gaurav Sansthan and the Kalimpong District Badminton Association by Pranay Gurung and moderator Dipesh Ghataney, including those gathered through social media.

Healthcare-related concerns were raised by Deepak Moktan (Mission Compound near Kalimpong District Hospital), Biraj Rai (Bidur Foundation), Anchal Tamang (Joint Secretary, NGO Network), and Ruben Khawas.

The pressing issue of unemployment and the continuous outmigration from the hills was highlighted by Gopal Khati (Pragati Sangh), Prashant Chettri (BEF and noted singer), and representatives including Katuwal from Bhalukhop.

In the field of education, questions were raised by Dhiraj Vishwakarma, a teacher from Dr. Graham’s Homes, along with theatre artist Furba Sherpa.

Meanwhile, concerns about the declining state of tourism in urban Kalimpong were addressed by Nereus Mukhia from the Kalimpong NGO Network, who questioned the candidate about his vision for the region’s future.

Responding to all the queries, Ruden Sada Lepcha acknowledged an important reality of leadership: “We do not become experts in every subject immediately after winning. Those who understand specific issues must guide us with proper frameworks on how to proceed.”

He illustrated this point with practical examples. Recalling a proposal from the Kalimpong District Badminton Association, he shared:

“They had approached me with a demand to build a badminton hall with three courts and a height of 35 feet. I had no knowledge about badminton. Based on what they explained, I consulted activists and experts, and the hall was constructed. Today, people are benefiting from it. If they had not come forward, that facility would not have been built.”

He further cited the case of a hockey stadium initiative led by Bharat Chettri: “Bharat Chettri, who is now contesting against me, once approached me with the idea of building a hockey stadium in Kalimpong. I did not know him personally. Someone informed me about him, and I gave him time to meet. Following his guidance, we worked with engineers to prepare a DPR, and through the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration, the stadium was constructed. If he had not approached me, that project would not have materialized.”

Through these examples, Lepcha emphasized the importance of public participation and clear communication. He urged citizens and organizations to actively present their needs with clarity and direction:

“Wherever there is a need, people must come forward, explain it clearly, and guide us. We are committed to carrying out such public-oriented works.”

This pioneering initiative by civil society in Kalimpong sets a powerful precedent. By creating a non-political platform that holds candidates accountable directly before the people, it strengthens democratic values and fosters a culture of responsibility. Such efforts ensure that, in the future, both the winning candidate and their political party remain answerable to the aspirations and expectations of the people.