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Why the Representation of People Act was amended and how Enough of Appeasement and Intimidation, Let’s Try Logic Now TURN TO pg 5 FOR DETAILS SAKEWA ABANDONED!

he way things are going, the Sikkim Bhutia-Lepcha TApex Committee [SIBLAC] might have to soon drop its claim to representing Lepcha associations. While the youth wing of the Sikkim Lepcha Association had already withdrawn its officials from SIBLAC some months back, the parent body, the Renjong Mutanchi Rong Tarjum, on LEPCHA BODY May 21, last Wednesday, decided to pull out of the Apex SAKEWA IS MORE Committee since they feel SIBLAC was going beyond the single-point agenda of redefining the Scheduled THAN JUST A Tribes Order which the Lepcha Association had decided to lend support to when SIBLAC was first formed. Mem- FESTIVAL, IT IS bers of Lepcha associations who continue to associate THE VERY WALKS AWAY with SIBLAC activities will be doing so at their individual capacities and not representing the Tarjum anymore, IDENTITY OF senior office bearers of the Sikkim Lepcha Association told NOW! SIBLAC, in the meanwhile has reacted to the KIRAT RAIS: decision as the handiwork of “vested interests” out to divide the BL community. CHAMLING FROM SIBLAC TURN TO pg 3 FOR DETAILS TURN TO pg 6 FOR DETAILS SSP OBSERVES FOUNDATION DAY SGMI INSTRUCTOR SANGRAM GETS SCALES EVEREST INTO ELECTION n a day when screaming winds on the dian to have scaled Everest from the Northern Oworld’s highest peak beat back more than face and now he also holds the unique achieve- hundred climbers, Nadre Sherpa, a 35-year-old ment of having summitted Everest again on the instructor with the Sonam Gyatso Mountaineer- 50th anniversary of the first successful ascent MODE ing Institute in Gangtok, conquered Mt. Ever- by Hillary and Tenzing on May 29, 1953. TURN TO pg 4 FOR DETAILS ON PROMISES BHANDARI est. In 1996, Nadre Sherpa became the first In- TURN TO pg 7 FOR DETAILS PLANS TO FOR ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS 2003

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1 2;GANGTOK NOW! May 28-03 June, 2003 MAY 28-03 JUNE, 2003 ED-SPACE NOW! More Hope For Sikkim 3% SIKKIM MATTERS Prudence - Never Misplaced The State Government, sometime back, set up a high-level committee to examine the issues arising out of the inclusion of the Limbu and Tamang communities in the Scheduled Tribes list. In its first order of business, the committee decided to call on all Limbu and Tamang organisations to submit detailed lists of all the subcastes in their respective communities. There will definitely be those who will scoff at the move as an- other attempt at delaying the benefits accruing to the two com- munities in their new identity as tribals. But Sikkim, with its con- tinuing problem of having bracketed communities as Bhutia in 1978 without consulting the people and their representatives should know that such prudence is not misplaced. In the case of the Limbus and Tamangs, the problem is not so much as including communities that don’t belong to either category, but Aloka Guha, Chairperson, National that of exclusion of subcastes that should be a part of their Trust for the Welfare of Persons definition. Limbus for example have some 62 subcastes and with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Tamangs about 15. While most officials in Sikkim will be able to Disabilities, with Dr. Bela Cintury, recognise a Limbu or Tamang surname, officials elsewhere might President, Spastic Society, Sikkim, not be as conversant with the two communities. at the Sikkim Spastic Centre To cite the example of neighbouring West Bengal. Bhutias a NOW! pic and Lepchas are recognised as tribals even there, but getting Trust Act and its workings was a tribal certificate is much more complicated. Ever noticed why SARIKAH ATREYA on the recent visit of the held here on May 26, which was almost everyone hailing from the Darjeeling district writes his/ Chairperson, National Trust for the Welfare of organised by the Trust along with her surname as Bhutia, Lepcha or Sherpa? It is because in- Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental the State Social Welfare Depart- terpretation of the Schedule Tribes Order, 1978, by officials ment. At the workshop, Ms. Guha there forcs them to do. If, for example, a Bhutia person signs Retardation and Multiple Disabilities, and what the stressed on the training of home- his surname as “Thondup,” he is refused a tribal certificate visit could mean for Sikkim Trust is to enable and empower per- based care-givers under its Reach because “Thondup” is not recognised as a tribal according to local Police Station in a sons with disabilities to live as in- & Relief Scheme. the guidelines available with officials there. Since a detailed dependently and as fully as possi- “This Scheme will be very directive outlining all the subcastes of Limbu and Tamang com- small town received a ble within and as close to the com- munities is still possible, it should be seen through. Acomplaint one day that a beneficial for a hilly state like Sik- The other initiative of the high-powered committee was to re- particular family living in the area munity they belonged to; to provide kim, where parents with a disabled quest the Directorate of Census Operations to conduct a spe- was involved in “smuggling” and need-based services and to deal with child cannot come to the Centre cial survey to identify the exact number of Limbus and Tamangs “antisocial” activities. The com- problems of the persons with disabil- on a daily basis. Under this in Sikkim and their concentration in different constituencies. plainants reported that the family ity who do not have family support scheme, care-givers will be trained This data is imperative if the political rights of the two commu- was hiding something, covered in a and most importantly, to promote to look after a disabled child within nities have to be cornered. The Centre will not decide on seat blanket all the time, inside the house. measures for the care and protec- their own community,” she said. allocations without the exact figures. A special census survey When the Police raided the tion of persons with disabilities in Ms. Guha also asked the State may, however, not be required because the one already held one-room house, they found a bun- the event of the death of their par- government to take up various in 2001 was quite exhaustive. It should contain the informa- dle covered by a blanket in one cor- ents or guardian and evolve a pro- other schemes of the trust like day tion required, but we won’t know about that till the Census ner of the room. When the blanket cedure for the appointment of legal care, respite care and residential Report, 2001 becomes official some time in September. was pulled away, the Police, and the guardians and trustees for them. care centres for the disabled. The hurry among the two communities to corner all the rights neighbours, to their utter shock, “The Trust works through lo- “We financially support regis- that they are now entitled to is understandable, given the close found a severely disabled person cal initiatives called Local Level tered NGOs with the running of such to three decades that they have struggled for tribal status. It bundled underneath the blanket! Committees, which are headed by Centres,” she said. The Spastic So- would, however, be in their benefit to exercise some self control This is a true-life incident that DCs and includes a disabled per- ciety of Sikkim became the first NGO now that they make a new beginning. A mistake at this juncture Aloka Guha, Chairperson, Na- son and an NGO. Currently there in Sikkim to register with the Trust. could take much more than 3 decades to correct - the unre- tional Trust for the Welfare of Per- are 369 LLCs in the country. There One of the most significant solved confusion over who is Bhutia being a case in point. sons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, are a number of grant-in-schemes aspects of the Trust is the appoint- Mental Retardation and Multiple of the Trust that are operational ment of legal guardians for per- Too Public For Comfort Disabilities narrates to every au- through registered organisations,” sons with disabilities. dience she addresses. Ms. Guha said. “Many a times, a person with For someone who has donned the greasepaint, the refrain “This story reflects our society’s The statistics provide an alarm- disability may require a legal that they attract too much attention is rather confounding. Less double-standards and the stigma at- ing picture. Conservative estimates guardian if his parents have left confounding though, that the recent public rantings of a sen- tached to a family with a disabled based on the 1991 census put the him some property or when he ior political leader that his “image” has been tarnished in re- child, especially in rural and eco- number of people with disabilities wishes to open a bank account or portage triggered by something that he let loose in the public nomically backwards areas of the at 61 million in India. In Sikkim apply for loans or licences or even domain himself. Politicians, because of the very nature of the country. It harks the acute need to about 3 percent of the population participate in mainstream activi- line they have chosen, are constantly under the scanner. Al- break the information as well as the is disabled, it is estimated. ties. A guardian has to fulfil all the though their private lives might be their own business, their physical and attitude barriers on dis- “The Trust was born out of needs of the disabled person - his politics and their politicking are open for scrutiny, comment, ability in our country,” she says. the need to address the problems personal care, food, clothing, shel- reportage and even ridicule. They cannot escape it even if Therefore, with a view to pro- of this sector. It is a protective law ter, health, religion, education and they want to. Politics after all is all about communication and tect the rights of the disabled per- and the only one that provides fi- security,” Ms. Guha said. although party loyalists ask for no justifications, the realm be- sons, prevent their exploitation and nancial assistance to the disabled. The Chairperson, during her yond is a two-way street of allegations and counter-allega- provide care and shelter to them, the It was also in response to parents visit, also met the Health and Edu- tions, explanations and even some mudslinging. If a politician National Trust came into force with disabled children who cation Ministers and asked for a does not want people to air their reactions or journalists to through an Act of the Parliament wanted to know what would hap- greater involvement of the State pursue a statement, then, he should never venture out of the under the Ministry of Social Justice pen to their child after their de- government in the disability sector. controlled confines of the party office. Once you have entered and Empowerment, Government of mise. In the last ten years, there Now, with the National Trust the public domain, then no complaints can be made that the India in December 1999. The Na- have been three legislations active in the State, those involved glare is too bright. To complain when the other side is given tional Trust is a decentralised, demo- passed by the Centre for the dis- in the disability sector are hopeful coverage hints at problems with free speech. And, when poli- cratic and transparent organisation. ability sector. The NT Act is the that it will provide the much- ticians hold grudges, even though politics admittedly has no Addressing a Press conference only one relatively easy to imple- needed boost to the various pro- permanent enemies, they broadcast their immaturity. in Gangtok on May 25, Ms. Guha ment,” she said. grammes and schemes for the dif- said that the main objectives of the A workshop on the National ferently-abled of Sikkim.

24 May 28-03 June, 2003; NOW! 3 RECAPRECAP SIKKIMSIKKIM LEPCHA ASSOCIATIONS WALK AWAY FROM SIBLAC Khyebumsa at Kabi Lunchog.” a NOW REPORT Claiming that he has been leading the “SIBLAC movement” GANGTOK: The Renjyong as its founder-member for more Mutanchi Rong Tarjum [Sikkim than four years, he announced that Lepcha Association] on May 21, he would continue to do so till its last Wednesday decided to pull out demands are met. of the Sikkim Bhutia Lepcha Apex Former chairman and zilla Committee [SIBLAC]. committee member, Chopel Lep- A Press release issued by the cha, was more direct in his con- Association informs that a Central demnation. “Some vested ele- Executive body meeting on that ments from Lepcha community day decided to withdraw Nima acting hand-in-glove with those Lepcha, an executive member of vested interests who are up to cre- the Tarjum and a Convenor with DURING BETTER TIMES: The SIBLAC rally of March 20 in Gangtok; a time when Lepcha associations were still a part of it ate division within the BL commu- SIBLAC, along with other Tarjum mand,” he said. LEPCHA ASSOCIATION The withdrawal of the two nity are working against the inter- officials deputed to SIBLAC. The SIBLAC of late has been very Lepcha associations from est of SIBLAC. The Lepchas of release states that the single-point vocal on the seat reservation issue CLAIMS SIBLAC WAS SIBLAC is bound to affect its Dzongu strongly oppose their ul- agenda leading to the formation of and delimitation of assembly con- claims to being representative of terior design and appeal to all Lep- SIBLAC was to redefine the stituencies in Sikkim. Mr. Lepcha ACTING BEYOND THE BL organisation in Sikkim. Mr. cha community of Sikkim not to Scheduled Tribes Order to remove maintained that their presence in AGENDA BEHIND ITS Nima Lepcha has already an- get swayed by their by their cam- communities bracketed as Bhutia SIBLAC was only as support for nounced his decision to ignore his paign and come under the um- in the said order. the “rightful” demand of the CREATION; SIBLAC parent association’s call for with- brella of SIBLAC,” he said. “This agenda appears to have Bhutias to remove the bracketed drawal. At a SIBLAC meeting Also reiterated at the meeting been compromised with the an- communities from the Bhutia defi- COUNTERS WITH held at Mangan recently, he coun- were SIBLAC demands for nouncement of SIBLAC that they nition. ALLEGATIONS OF tered the order for withdrawal with amending the ST Order, 2003 and are ready to accept all the brack- When asked to comment on an emotional outburst. He said: Representation of People eted people falling within the defi- the continuing presence of Lepcha “VESTED INTERESTS” “Bhutia-Lepcha people are one. [Amendment] Act, 1980 to restore nition of Bhutia in their fold,” the Association members in SIBLAC, SPLITTING THE BLs No force on earth can divide the the original identity and political release adds. Mr. Lepcha clarified that they now two communities. If some disgrun- rights of the BLs and delimitation Elaborating the reasons be- did so at an “individual” capacity able response. The youth wing had tled elements want to withdraw me in a manner that BL electorates get hind the withdrawal, the Tarjum and were no longer representing sought SIBLAC’s support for its from Sikkim Bhutia Lepcha Apex majority in the 12 seats reserved General Secretary, KL Lepcha, the Sikkim Lepcha Association. demands of: 50 per cent reserva- Committee with an ill-intent to for them. told NOW! that the main reason Earlier, the youth-wing of the tion for Lepchas in all reservations weaken the BL movement for res- The reiteration of the demands was that SIBLAC had now gone Sikkim Lepcha Association had for the BLs, including in educa- toration of political rights, it is es- notwithstanding, it remains to be beyond the “single-point” agenda withdrawn its members from tion, jobs and assembly seats; and sential for them to first bring an seen what impact the official with- for which it was instituted. SIBLAC when its one-month ul- amendment of Revenue Order No. end to the Treaty of Blood Broth- drawal of Lepcha associations “SIBLAC was formed with timatum demanding the Apex 1 to protect alienation of Lepcha erhood solemnised between from SIBLAC has on the Commit- only one purpose and was never Committee’s support for its de- land even to Bhutias. Thekontek, Nyokungnal and tee’s following and status. authorised to raise any other de- mands lapsed without any favour-

After Bodos, it’s rogue GNLF activists Win with Buy an ALTO before ALTO gal when they were intercepted by st a NOW REPORT Sikkim Police. Rs. 11,00000 31 May 2003 Four days later, another ac- GANGTOK: Barely four months cused in the GNLF councillor’s BUMPER have lapsed since wanted Bodo murder, Sant Kumar Kalikotey militants were arrested from their alias Kalikotey Kancha, was PRIZE Get Rs. 8,000 CASH Sikkim hideout and it was the turn nabbed by Sikkim Police at of rogue GNLF activists avoiding Mangshila in North Sikkim. DISCOUNT arrest on charges of murder to seek Only one more suspect in the Sikkim out for safe haven. Un- murder case remains absconding. on every purchase of ALTO. Win with ALTO luckily for them, they met with the Goak Kailaa alias Kamal Gurung, same fate as the Bodo outfit’s vice- a contractor and prime suspect in Rs. 10,000 WAGON R, OMNI AND ZEN* president. the investigations has remained (RS. 5,000 worth of accessories FREE) Sikkim Police, on May 21, ar- untraced thus far. Darjeeling po- Rs. 3,000 rested Bishal Rai, 20, Milan Rai, lice now plan to freeze his bank Rs. 2,000 Assured 24, Prabhat Kalikotey, 18 and Man accounts to facilitate his arrest Kumar Rai, 24, all residents of once he runs out of finances. Rs. 1,000 Prizes for every Lower Goak busty, West Bengal, The GNLF councillor’s murder ALTO CELEBRATION ALTO at the Ramam check post on the is believed to have resulted from ALTO customer Sikkim-West Bengal border near an intra-party feud after he fell out worth Nayabazaar, south Sikkim. They with those named in the FIR. were wanted by the Darjeeling While it is not unusual for Rs. 500 police in connection with the mur- those escaping the law in * Not Applicable for Govern- der of Prakash Theeng, a council- Darjeeling to slip into Sikkim, the ment and Taxi vehicles lor of Darjeeling. recent Bodo experience seems to The group was reportedly be- have made Sikkim Police more ing escorted into Sikkim in a taxi- vigilant in following up reports of ENTEL MOTORS jeep by six residents of Kamjer unfamiliar faces surfacing in re- 6TH MILE, TADONG. PH: 231828, 232341, 232059 busty, in neighbouring West Ben- mote areas of Sikkim.

35 4; NOW! May 28-03 June, 2003 POWERPOWER PLAYPLAY SLTJAC blames State govt for SANGRAM GETS INTO ELECTION MODE delay in a NOW REPORT NO SHERPA CANDIDATES reserving seats GANGTOK: The Opposition a NOW REPORT Sikkim Sangram Parishad kicked into campaign mode with its 19th FROM BL SEATS, GANGTOK: The Sikkim Limbu foundation day observed here at Tamang Joint Action Committee the Sangram Bhavan on May 24, headed by PR Subba as President last Saturday. ASSURES BHANDARI has held the State government re- The party president and lone sponsible for failing to deliver re- Opposition member in the Assem- bracketed as “Bhutia” in the ST that the such “undemocratic” prac- corruption charges against him. served seats for the Limbu and bly, Nar Bahadur Bhandari, set the Order be removed since their pres- tices could be checked if the State These cases, he said, were more Tamang communities. tone for his party’s poll campaign ence diluted the rights of the Bhu- used the 900 electronic voting ma- than twenty years old and there Claiming that “political with an attack on the ruling Sik- tia community. chines already delivered to Sikkim. were many more issues that de- rights” should have been the first kim Democratic Front and its bun- Mr. Bhandari justified his lat- He said that he had already met the manded attention but were being right assured for the two commu- dle of promises. est decision as one necessitated by Chief Election Commissioner in this ignored by the Press. nities the moment they were in- Given the confusion created the constitutional provisions of Ar- regard and warned that SSP would The tirade against the Press cluded as scheduled tribes, an by the now postponed delimitation ticle 371F and the spirit of the Tri- “retaliate” to any undemocratic was, however, much more vocal SLTJAC Press release accuses the drive, it was only natural that Mr. partite Agreement of May 8, 1973. tricks during the elections. in the speech delivered by his two Sikkim MPs of being “negli- Bhandari had special announce- Assurances for the State’s BLs The SSP supremo also revealed Vice-President [legal], Hem Lall gent” and failing to brief the Par- ments to make vis a vis the re- continued with the reiteration of that the party had “studied” the in- Bhandari, who alleged that a sec- liament properly on the nuances of served assembly seats and more SSP’s “commitment” to protect the flux pattern in Sikkim and will soon tion of the media had tarnished his Article 371F and thus delaying the reservations on the anvil. 12 seats reserved for the BLs and come out with its proposal for de- image in its coverage of his recent reservation. Speaking to some 1,000 party the one Sangha seat in the assem- ciding the “cut-off year” so that the petition against a sitting Chief Jus- They have also pulled up the supporters present on the day, Mr. bly. Mr. Bhandari further promised original Bhutia, Lepcha, Nepalese tice of the Sikkim High Court. State Government and its MPs for Bhandari announced that his party that “only BL monks will be and plainsmen business community Claiming that he was the only failing to “mention the proper had taken the decision not to field fielded from the Sangha seats and can avail of the benefits reserved Sikkimese to have taken a sitting spelling and different titles of Lim- Sherpa candidates from any of the SSP tickets for the reserved con- for genuine Sikkimese. Chief Justice to court, the SSP bus of Sikkim”. “The Bill should constituencies reserved for Sik- stituencies divided equally among Taking a dig at the ruling Gov- Vice-President threatened to take have indicated Limbu [Subba, kim’s Bhutia-Lepcha community in Bhutia and Lepcha candidates. ernment, Mr. Bhandari began his such newspapers, whom he re- Tsong] and Tamang, in place of assembly polls slated for next year. In a clear signal to its party speech with: “We are gathered fused to name, to court on charges Limboo and Tamang,” the Press “We made a mistake in the workers to gear up for campaign- here to discuss the corrupt, un- of contempt. release contends. previous election by fielding a ing, Mr. Bhandari revealed that democratic and communal gov- Interestingly, he also de- The Committee has also Sherpa candidate in a BL seat and with his re-election as party presi- ernment in the state.” manded extension of President’s thanked SIBLAC leaders for their this will not be repeated in the dent recently, a new central high He announced that if his party rule in Sikkim in light of what he support to the demand for reserv- coming elections,” he said. command had been formed to managed to form the government saw as growing communal tension ing seats for the two new tribal Constitutionally, Sherpas are oversee party activities. He further after the next elections, the first and corruption in the State. communities. It has now urged entitled to contest from seats re- maintained that this time around, order of business would be to ex- Also announced at the founda- “BL leaders” to “come out boldly” served for the BLs because they party tickets will be handed out pose the “ministers and VIPs” in- tion day was SSP’s 14-point reso- in support of the SLTJAC demand are clubbed as Bhutia in the only to “fitting” candidates and not volved in various scams. lution on issues concerning the for eight seats for Limbus and Scheduled Tribes Order. Various necessarily party-loyalists. Mr. Bhandari’s spat with the State. Informed sources further re- Tamangs. BL organisations have often de- Fearing that the next elections Press continued in his address veal that SSP has also decided to manded that the communities will see “rigging,” Mr. Bhandari said when he criticised the fourth es- keep its options open for possible tate for focusing too much on the pre-poll tie-up with national parties.

naya Commander 650 DI Court gives Hem Lall ZYAADA KA WAADA INTRODUCING time to respond to charges of perjury The Criminal Misc. Applica- a NOW REPORT tion filed by the Registrar General accuses Mr. Bhandari of levelling GANGTOK: The Sikkim High charges against the former CJ “to Court has given SSP Vice-President, bring the High Court in disrepute Hem Lall Bhandari, time till June so that the judiciary in the State 10 to respond to charges of perjury may not function smoothly, inde- filed against him by the Registrar pendently and without fear.” General of the Sikkim High Court. Pointing out that the confusion The Registrar General, on May over the allegation of withdrawing * Attractive Finance Available 14, reacting to Mr. Bhandari’s pe- conveyance allowance had already tition accusing the sitting Chief Jus- been cleared in a similar petition tice of enjoying housing and con- [since dismissed as withdrawn] filed Features: veyance allowance that was not due in the Supreme Court in 2002, the Engine - MDI 3200 L to him, had filed a counter affida- application for proceeding with Direct Injection Diesel vit demanding that proceedings perjury charges against Mr. under section 193 of the IPC be Bhandari contends that since he FREE GIFT WORTH Rs. 5000/- Tyres - Radial 185 R 16 initiated against Mr. Bhandari for was aware of the contents of SC ON EVERY PURCHASE Rs. 3,58, 950/- (2WD) “intentionally making false allega- petition, he should “necessarily” tions” against the Chief Justice. also have been aware of the coun- RUSH TO: While Mr. Bhandari’s petition ter affidavit filed in that case. He still 6th MILE, has already been dismissed “with went ahead and filed the same alle- TADONG. cost” by the High Court, whether it gation and should thus be “pros- SIKKIM MOTORS decides to proceed with the perjury ecuted for intentionally giving false (Authorised MAHINDRA dealers) charge or not will be known on June evidence in respect of the allega- 10, the date set for deciding on the tions,” the Registrar General pleads,

PH: 232767, 232873, 98320-13065; 94341-26860; 94341-37192 Apply Conditions * admissibility of the case. turn to pg 6

4 May 28-03 June, 2003; NOW! 5 FOCUSFOCUS

hen the then Union Law Minister, P. Shiv Shankar, WHY THE REPRESENTATION OF PEOPLE ACT WAS AMENDED AND HOW - II proposed the amendment of Wthe Representation of Peo- ple Act, 1950, in the Parliament on Febru- ary 2, 1980, the first voice to rise in protest ENOUGH OF APPEASEMENT against the proposal was that of Anand Pathak, the MP from Darjeeling. The first point that Mr. Pathak made while opposing the Bill was that it was no different from the one that was moved on May 18, 1979 AND INTIMIDATION, by the previous Janata Government. “Immediately after the introduction of the Bill in 1979, there was widespread resent- ment, discontent, dissension and disharmony among the people,” he informed the House. LET’S TRY LOGIC NOW According to Mr. Pathak, the Bill evoked ex- treme reactions because it “could not satisfy place in Sikkim on the guidelines prescribed. any section of the [Sikkimese] people”. The period from 1975, the year of the merger, to 1979, when the Mr. Shiv Shankar, while responding to Mr. Pathak was not wrong. Ordinance outlining the reservation structure for Sikkim was the objections and suggestions said: “The The LD Kazi government, already into passed, was a turbulent and fluid time both for Sikkim as well as Bill has a very limited purpose, namely to the sixth year of its first term, was ripped preserve the validity of the elections that apart when news of what was proposed the Centre. The said Ordinance, it is clear now, was forced more have taken place when the Ordinance was reached Sikkim. His own MLAs [he had 31] by the peculiar situation of the time than by any logic. It contin- in force, and I may straightaway submit that rose up in protest when the State Legisla- ues to haunt Sikkim to this date. Before we exorcise this ghost, it if we do not enact this Bill, the difficulty tive Assembly convened. Questions were will be with reference to the elections that posed on who advised whom on the draft- is important to know its genesis. have already taken place... So, necessarily, ing of the Bill, which, although a Central PEMA WANGCHUK on the situation that gave us the Representation those elections need to be saved.” While matter, would have required suggestions of People’s [Amendment] Act, 1980, the problems the Parliamen- defending the Sangha seat as something from the State. No one in Sikkim, neither made valid by Article 371F, he maintained the Ministers nor the MLAs, it appears were tarians of the time had with it and the possible road ahead... that because the 1979 elections in Sikkim taken into confidence. Most of the dissent- were imperilled if any changes were made, ing voices focused on where the seats re- 1980. Mr. Pathak argued that the 1971 Cen- lese since most SCs belonged to this com- the Bill be enacted as an Act. served for Sikkimese Nepalese had gone. sus pegged the BL composition of Sikkim at munity, was contested by Ngangom It was, however, not as if a question- No answers were given. Soon, Mr. Kazi’s 21 per cent and that reserving 37 per cent of Mohendra, the MP from Inner Manipur, who able system was made permanent. The then MLAs started deserting him until he was the seats for them [12 seats in 32] perpetu- warned against such presumptions since the Union Law Minister did get on record about forced into a minority and had to resign on ated the very reason which had prompted the seats were not reserved exclusively for SCs a possible way out. August 13, 1979. Merger - minority rule. He pointed out that belonging to the Sikkimese Nepalese com- He said: “The suggestions that have In the meanwhile, with the collapse of the rule of proportion was taken into account munity - they were open to SCs from all over been made can be considered for the future the Janata Government at the Centre, the Bill when two seats were reserved for the Sched- India who settled in Sikkim. Criticising the elections.... If it is a case of revising the in the Parliament lapsed without getting de- uled Caste community of Sikkim and won- statement of objects and reasons, he said: reservations for the future, that is a matter bated. Now, there was President’s rule, both dered why it was ignored when it came to “...in Sikkim, it appears, the interest of the which can be taken cognisance of. The in the Centre and in Sikkim. Elections in Sik- the BLs. He even announced in the Parlia- ethnic Nepalese seem to have not been safe- hopes and aspirations of the people can also kim had to be rushed because the Union’s ment that the BLs, because of “their guarded and nothing is sought to safeguard be considered and a new policy evolved. youngest State was already into its sixth year aboriginality and with a their interests. In fact, No doubt, valuable suggestions with respect without a democratically elected government. view to allay the appre- AT PRESENT, the statement of objects to reservation have been made by the other Elections had to be held fast, but there were hension in their minds” and reasons actually side, but they can be considered at an ap- no fresh guidelines in place. The earlier cal- should be given some THE TONE IN merge the interests of propriate stage.” culation of 15-15-1-1 was obviously not pos- weightage of one or two WHICH the ethnic Nepalese That “appropriate stage” was the time sible and because these would be the first more seats over their CERTAIN with those of the Sched- before the next assembly elections in Sik- elections in Sikkim since it became a part of constitutional share, but uled Castes.” kim. However, after all the furore, the ar- India, the Indian businessmen community, protested the manner in GROUPS ARE Sikkim’s first guments were forgotten and the Bill re- which did not get to vote in 1974, also had to which the rights of one TALKING elected representative mained unchanged for four more elections. accommodated. The Centre had no other al- section of the people ABOUT THE to the Lok Sabha, In between, there was a Supreme Court case ternative but to hold it on the basis of the was taken away [aboli- Pahalman Subba, too challenging the seats reserved for the BLs only proposal at hand, the earlier Bill for tion of seats reserved for RESERVATION was allowed a com- and every party promised to return the re- amendment which had lapsed. The President, Nepalese] and another ISSUE IS NOT ment. He pointed out served seats to the Sikkimese Nepalese. thus passed the same Bill as an Ordinance section “pacified”. ONE THAT the rout suffered by While there are enough memoranda with the and called elections in Sikkim. “This,” he said, Mr. Kazi in the elec- centre to fill a room with representations Criticising this decision in 1980, “has done no good to HINTS AT THE tions, where not even made to reinstate reservation for Sikkimese Harekrushna Mallick, a Rajya Sabha MP any section.” POSSIBILITY A one of his candidates Nepalese, none seem to have pointed out from Orissa, alleged that Ordinance was un- Stressing on the UNITED won, as proof of the that this was something even the Parliament constitutional since the President did not public reaction against Sikkimese people’s had noted during the debate on amendment discuss it with the Rajya Sabha which, be- the abolition of seats RESOLUTION “unhappiness” with the and was to some extent committed to re- ing a permanent body, had survived through reserved for the Sikkimese Nepalese, Mr. Bill in question and the reservation formula. consider at a future date. the President’s rule. Pathak said that the sentiments were a re- The government in power in Sikkim and the Going over the arguments made in the These technicalities apart, Mr. Pathak, flection of fears that what happened to Opposition, he said, had already expressed Parliament in 1980 and the peculiar situa- the MP from Darjeeling, insisted that the Nepalese in Assam and Meghalaya might a united desire to “see certain important tion which forced the Bill through without “controversial” Bill not be rushed through get repeated in Sikkim. He claimed that such changes and amendments in the Bill” which changes, makes it obvious that it is flawed. in haste. He advised that the Bill be brought apprehensions stemmed from the unin- was why the State government should be The argument that the Sikkimese Nepalese back to the Parliament only after its con- formed opinion that central leaders had of “fully consulted” before any “permanent ar- have been given a raw deal is obvious since tents had been discussed with the Sikkim Indian Nepalese who continue to be viewed rangement” is made. the Act offers special status to only two of Legislative Assembly [the Bhandari Gov- as foreigners. A small gesture like recogni- Mr. Subba even suggested a formula. the three sections identified as the ethnic ernment was already in power in Sikkim by tion of the Nepali language in the Eight While supporting the reservations already communities of Sikkim at the time of the the time the Bill was debated] and a for- Schedule would go a long way in making proposed, he suggested an additional reser- Merger. Suffice to say here that the Act mula for seat reservation acceptable to the the Indian Nepalese feel more secure, Mr. vation of 15 seats for the Sikkimese Nepa- needs to be re-evaluated and its anomalies Sikkimese was worked out. Pathak observed. Had such a sense of be- lese. “The existing arrangement,” he said, resolved to the best extent possible. Mr. Pathak’s main grouse with the Bill longing been instilled among the Nepalese, “had caused an imbalance in the political But there is no easy way out. Any re- was that it reserved 12 seats for the BLs, had they, as the majority in Sikkim, would not structure of Sikkim and concern among the evaluation of the Representation of People no protection for the Sikkimese Nepalese and have insisted on reservation of seats in the Nepalese born and bred in Sikkim.” [Amendment] Act, 1980, will, perforce bring the Sangha seat. The last was protected by Assembly, he opined. There were more voices of protest, but the focus back on the seats reserved for the Article 371F, but the two former points, The statement of objects and reasons the Bill had to be passed unchanged because BL community in Sikkim. The present level which continue to remain contentious to this supporting the Bill, which suggested that two of the unique constitutional deadlock created is obviously tilted in their favour and will be day, were for the Parliament to decide in seats were reserved for the Sikkimese Nepa- by the fact that elections had already taken - turn to pg 9

5 6; NOW! May 28-03 June, 2003 FROM-THE-SPOTFROM-THE-SPOT Sakewa is more than just a festival, it is the very identity of Kirat Rais: Chamling claring their prominent festivals as large,” the Chief Minister said. He said that his government has be capable in all ways,” he said. a NOW REPORT State holidays, he stressed on the While advocating the use of a taken a decision to promote village Earlier, in his welcome address, need for people’s participation in “mool basha,” Mr. Chamling said and cultural tourism in a big way the president of the Akhil Kirat Rai GANGTOK: Chief Minister the continued evolution of ethnic that the different sub-communities in Sikkim. The State would organ- Sangh, Sikkim, PD Rai, thanked Pawan Chamling has urged the cultures and traditions. within the Nepali community have ize month-long ethnic cultural fes- the State government for the due Rai community to work harder to “We can only be the their own dialects apart of Nepali. tivals throughout the year, during recognition given to the Sakewa preserve and promote their ethnic facilitators. It is up to the differ- “If certain words from all the eth- which the traditional costumes, festival and declaring it a State holi- customs, traditions, art, culture ent communities and the people to nic groups such as the Rais, songs and dances and cuisine will day. He said that the Sangh has and language and identity. He said preserve their unique culture and Tamangs, Gurungs etc., are incor- be show-cased, he announced. been celebrating the Sakewa festi- this at the Sakewa celebrations identity,” he said. porated into the Nepali language, Mr. Chamling also said that it val in a big way all over the State organized by the Akhil Kirat Rai “Sakewa is not just a festival, it will greatly enrich the language was important that today’s youth fo- for the past five years. Sangh, Sikkim at the Community it is the very identity of the Kirat as well as ensure the continuity of cused on capacity building rather A cultural programme was put Hall here on May 23. Rais. An extensive research is the ethnic dialects,” he said. than running for white-collared jobs. up by different cultural groups While reiterating that his gov- needed to fully document this great Mr. Chamling said that Sik- “I want to also dispel the per- during the function. An exhibition ernment has given due importance festival. Scholars should document kim was a melting pot of differ- ceived notion among the people of was also put up where traditional to all ethnic communities of the all aspects of this community so ent cultures and customs and that Sikkim that I will only favour artifacts and tools of the Kirat Rai State by recognizing their lan- that it can contribute positively to time had come for a “cultural in- those from the Rai community. community were displayed. Mr. guages as State languages and de- the development of the society at tegration”, which would bind to- Nobody should come to me with Chamling also conferred a post- gether the different ethnic groups favours for jobs just because he or humous award on late Kripa TASHI NAMGYAL ACADEMY of the State. she belongs to a particular com- Salyan Rai, renowned Rai linguist ADMISSION IN CLASS XI - 2003 in TNA “There is a cultural revolution munity. This solely depends on the and winner of the Bhanu Puraskar underway in the State,” he said, merit of the person. That is why it of the Nepali Sahitya Sammelan, A few seats are available for admission in class XI - Sci- adding that all cultures, customs is very important that our youth re- Gangtok for his outstanding con- ence / Commerce and Humanities Streams. Students and traditions of different commu- member that a mere degree will tribution towards the development who have passed ICSE Examination March 2003 with nities were flourishing in the State. not get them a job. They should of the Rai language and script. exceptionally high marks may apply with marks sheet and character certificate on or before 5th June 2003. Ad- COURT GIVES HEM LALL TIME TO... Kutse Shegu mission will be based on merit as per eligibility criteria tempt to mislead the Court,” said Contd from pg 4 The 49th day Kutse Shegu of Late laid down for various streams. Mere submission of appli- a senior official of the Court. Poprim Bhutia, r/o Lingeythang Busty, cation is no guarantee for admission. since Mr. Bhandari “knew” his al- Perjury [lying under oath], as Below Old Market, Pakyong Bazaar, Principal legations to be “false”. mentioned earlier is a criminal of- East Sikkim who left for heavenly abode on 10 May 2003 falls on Friday, 27 June TNA Sources in the High Court are fence and attract a maximum sen- 2003. All relatives, friends and well confident of the merits of their tence of seven years. Since it is wishers are requested to join us in of- case because they are not filing near impossible to ascertain fering prayers for the departed soul at INSTITUTE OF HOTEL MANAGEMENT our residence. we also thank all those CATERING TECHNOLOGY & any fresh documents or interpre- whether a certain person knew his who helped us during our hour of be- APPLIED NUTRITION tation to press their charges. “The statement to be the truth or not, reavement and regret our inability to do so individually. (Sponsored by Govt. Of India & Govt. Of Sikkim) documents submitted by Mr. legal jurisprudence decides a per- Bhandari themselves prove that son is lying if it believes that “any Mr. & Mrs. Prem Kr. Rai (son), Mr. P.S. Road, Gangtok, Sikkim - 737101 & Mrs. C. B. Subba (son in law), Ph: (03592) 223502, 228239. Fax: 03592 222707 there was no foul-play afoot, yet reasonable person would have Sunita Pradhan (daughter) & all [ Affiliated to National Council for Hotel Management & Catering Technology, he submitted the same in an at- known the statement to be a lie”. family members Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India, New Delhi ] ADMISSION NOTICE Applications are invited for admission to the following ONE & HALF YEARS DIPLOMA courses for the academic session The New Maxx Festiva 2003 - 2004 1. DIPLOMA IN FOOD PRODUCTION Make Every Journey a Celebration 2. DIPLOMA IN FOOD & BEVERAGE SERVICE 3. DIPLOMA IN FRONT OFFICE OPERATION ELIGIBILITY: The minimum qualification for admission to any of above Diploma Courses is a pass in the +2 level of Senior Secondary Education or equivalent with compulsory knowledge of English. Candidates who have appeared in the +2 Examina- tion for the academic session 2002 - 2003 are also eligible to apply. Candidates placed in compartment in the qualifying ex- amination are not eligible. AGE: Age of the candidate should not be more than 22 years as on 1st July 2003. For candidates belonging to SC / ST, age limit is relaxable upto 25 years. RESERVATION OF SEATS: 15% seats are reserved for SC, 71/2% for ST candidates and 3% for physically challenged can- didates subject to their disability not proving an obstacle for ultimate employment in the service industry. FEE RELAXATION: Special concession of 75% in Tuition fee MaxxMaxx MaaneMaane ZYaadaZYaada only is available for Bonafide Sikkimese students. * Attractive Finance Available HOW TO APPLY: Application form & prospectus can be ob- FEATURES: tained from Institue of Hotel Management, Gangtok against
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6 May 28-03 June, 2003; NOW! 7 RECAPRECAP SIKKIMSIKKIM SGMI INSTRUCTOR SCALES EVEREST, AGAIN last Wednesday. Sherpa’s second ascent of the Ev- Nygei Khangse to name a few. expeditions this year has also seen a NOW REPORT Mr. Sherpa is part of a 15- erest. In 1996, he became the first Also representing Sikkim in the many records get broken. Appa member expedition to Everest led Indian to conquer Everest from the expedition is Phul Maya Tamang, Sherpa, 42, climbed the peak for GANGTOK: In the face of in- by HMI Principal Col. Vijay North [Tibet] face. The State had another instructor with SGMI, who a record 13th time breaking his clement weather which beat back Singh, to mark the 50th anniver- rewarded his feat with a cash award successfully scaled Mt. own record, while Sherpa Lhakpa more than 100 climbers, Nadre sary of the first successful ascent of Rs. 1 lakh at the time. His present Sudharashan in the year 2002 as Gela, 36, broke the speed record Sherpa, the 35 year old instructor of the Everest by Edmund Hillary achievement becomes even more part of her preparation for moun- when he reached the summit in 10 with Sonam Gyatso Mountaineer- and Tenzing Norgay on May 29, special given the timing. taineering’s greatest challenge. hours 56 minutes and 46 seconds. ing Institute here and Kushang 1953. The expedition was flagged A consummate climber, he has Also vying for a spot on the He broke the speed record set only Dorjee, an instructor with off from Darjeeling by scaled many other peaks like top are 500 members of 22 other a couple days earlier of 13 hours Himalayan Mountaineering Insti- Padmabhusan recipient Nawang Gangotri-1, Mount Shivling, expeditions from the Nepal side. which had skimmed some four tute, Darjeeling, summited Mount Gombu on March 29. Mana, Mount Gya and Mount The media hype surrounding the hours off the earlier record. Everest at 12:30 pm on May 21, Incidentally, this is Mr. MOUNTAINEER SURVIVES THREE DAYS OF EXPOSURE ON KHANGCHENDZONGA Carlos Pauner and Silvio Mondinelli summited Khangchendzonga from the Nepal side on May 20, but Carlos disappeared while descending, never arriving back in Camp III at 7600m. Just when all hope was lost, Carlos Puaner Carlos arrived at the base camp having survived high a NOW REPORT altitude in bad weather for three days without shelter, food, or wa- KATHMANDU: Although expe- ter. He, however, is nursing se- ditions from the Sikkim side are verely frostbitten fingers and is in banned, Nepal continues to allow danger of losing them. mountaineers to test their mettle Khangchendzonga was first against the third highest peak from summited in 1955 from the Nepal their side. The mountain remains side and in 1977 from the Sikkim as treacherous as ever and contin- side. It is considered a more diffi- ues to exact a price from the climb- cult climb than Everest and has ers. Mountaineers too have proven only had 172 summits. 40 have lost their grit on Khangchendzonga, as their lives on this mountain giving was the case with the Spanish it a very high fatality rate - 23%. climber, Carlos Puaner who sur- Everest, in comparison has seen vived three days of exposure on 1,200 successful ascents and 175 the upper reaches of the peak. casualties. LAND FOR SALE PRIME LAND FOR SALE NEAR SONAM BUILDING, DEVELOPMENT AREA MEASURING 2450 SQ.FT. Please contact before 10 AM and after 5 PM @ PHONE: 223040

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15 8; NOW! May 28-03 June, 2003 WHY I DRIVE WITHOUT ACTIONACTION MAILMAIL A LICENCE , a concerned citizen of Gang their attitude, then Traffic Police CHUJACHEN Inconsiderate treatment at Itok would like to bring to your officers, please don’t blame notice the attitude of the Motor youngsters if they drive without a SCHOOL FOOT- Central Referral Hospital Vehicles inspectors. Recently, I licence. We are sorry, but we had been to them for my trial test, would rather go about driving his letter is not intended to I approached the Medical Su- but no seemed to be interested in without licenses than wait for 4 to PATH LITTERED bring disrepute to the Central perintendent to complain but even T taking it. I wonder what would 5 hours on people who seem so Referral Hospital, Tadong or to he did not do anything. He asked have motivated their interest. disinterested in their work. WITH GARBAGE settle personal scores. However, in me to keep the patient till May 26, Every year, 18-year-olds wait I am a regular reader of NOW! ll plans and proposals of the the interest of the general people, but the Gynaecologist advised oth- eagerly to get their driving li- and sincerely hope that you will government to provide a I feel obliged to bring to record the erwise saying that delay may lead A cences, but the attitude I saw at help me voice the feelings of many better life to the people shall blatant negligence that’s being to complications. So I got her dis- MV office makes it near impossi- youngsters like me. stand defeated until the people done there. charged in the evening after the ble to get one properly. If so be A concerned citizen themselves start making best use On the morning of May 22, I entire day had been lost. of the incentives. Crores of took my ailing mother there. Upon The Anaesthetist’s attitude funds are drained into schemes the suggestions of the Gynaecolo- was deplorable. Isn’t there some- Everyone’s got complaints and the best thing about a democracy is that NO BOOKS, intiated to provide better gist, she was admitted immedi- thing called medical ethics? We these complaints can be voiced. “Ac- infrastructure to the the people, ately. She was to undergo an op- place doctors next to God, now I tion Mail,” is a platform where the NO NEWS am forced to have second but none seem interested in eration the following day. After public mails us their grievances and shall be grateful if you kindly thoughts. preserving them. several tests were conducted, she we get them the replies from the con- publish this letter in your paper. I urge the Deptt. of Health, I The condition of the CC had to be examined by the Anaes- cerned authorities. If you too have a Among the many problems that we GoS, to take steps to check such Footpath from Chujachen Sr. thetist for the final approval. But problem that needs redressal, just face in our student life, the delay irregularities occuring in that hos- Sec. School to Sungdong Road is he simply refused to look into her mail your complaint to us at NOW! in book supply seems the most pital, which is putting many an an example of such carelessness file when approached. At that time Gairi Gaon, Tadong, Gangtok, East perpetual. We, the students of class innocent life to risk. of some local people. House he was on duty and his refusal is Sikkim or email us at sikkimnow@ XII of Yangang Sr. Sec. School Samdup Bhutia, Ranipool rediffmail.com. wastes and debris thrown on the not at all justified. perhaps suffer the most. Two foot path by people who are or months of the session for 2003 are were part of the school at one NOT “INCONSIDERATE,” DOCTORS DID already over and we still do not time is disturbing. have our books. We have also Why don’t the departmental heard that the books have changed, authorities check such malprac- WHAT WAS BEST FOR PATIENT: CRH but we do not know whether the tices? Is their duty simply hen NOW! contacted Dr. S. a heart problem which would CRH till Tuesday was not advis- new books are coming or not. confined to building and nothing WSingh, Medical Superin- make the operation complicated. able. An emergency operation was So, we the students of Sr. Sec. more than that? Please do tendent and Dr Prachi, the Gynae- The doctor then consulted the ruled out because the patient was School, Yangang, South Sikkim, something because almost all the cologist at Central Referral Hos- anaesthetist who did not want to already losing blood and would appeal to the State Government students, the teachers and local pital, it was learnt that the patient risk it since gynaecological surger- bleed more during the operation. through the Education Department people are finding it difficult to was a 60 year old woman with ies are slated for Tuesdays when “Since we do not have adequate to kindly look into this matter and walk on this footpath during the bleeding problem. the operation ward is better pre- blood bank facility, keeping the pa- take necessary action as soon as monsoons. Dr Prachi wanted to operate on pared to handle such cases. tient’s interest in mind, we advised possible. Students, Chujachen Sr. Sec. her immediately, but further inves- Since the patient’s condition her son to take her to STNM hospi- Mahesh Dawari, Govt Sr. Sec. School tigation revealed that she also had was rather serious, keeping her at tal,” informed Dr Prachi. School, Yangang, South Sikkim nOw oN tHe roAd

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16 May 28-03 June, 2003; NOW! 9 RECAPRECAP SIKKIMSIKKIM ONE KILLED IN DAMSITE LACK OF WORK CULTURE FORCES DAYAL EXPLOSION a NOW REPORT TO QUIT COMMISSIONS DIKCHU: One person was killed retired on May 17, had taken over is a total lack of work culture and discharge his duties. and another injured when a cylin- a NOW REPORT as the Chairman of the two com- discipline amongst the Staff and Contradicting the former CJ’s der used for fabrication work here missions on May 18. He tendered the members of the Commissions? reasons for quitting office, SSP at the NHPC damsite exploded at GANGTOK: Retired Chief Justice his resignation to the Governor, V A member secretary, when sum- Vice-President, Hem Lall Bhandari, around 8:55 PM on May 20, last of Sikkim, Ripusudan Dayal, re- Rama Rao. moned does not turn up. No one said that the resignation was proof Tuesday. Ranjan Kumar Singh, a signed from his post of Chairman Speaking to the NOW! on Fri- takes in any interest in the work- of Mr. Dayal’s guilt on charges of roller operator, died on the spot State Human Rights Committee and day, Mr. Dayal said that the total ing of the Commissions. It is a enjoying undue benefits during his while M. Kumar Chettri, a driver the State Law Commission on May absence of work culture and dis- sheer waste of time,” he said. tenure as Sikkim High Court’s Chief with the NHPC, is reported to be 22, within days of taking charge. cipline in the two Commissions Mr. Dayal was reportedly not Justice. Mr. Bhandari’s petition rais- in a critical condition and has been The former Chief Justice of prompted him to take the step. even provided with a clerk or a ing the allegations has already been referred to a Siliguri nursing home. the Sikkim High Court, who had “What does one do when there peon or even an official vehicle to dismissed by the High Court. RESTED FOR OVER 40 YEARS, REST HOUSE AWAITS ADITYA CONSULTANCIES FIRST TIME IN SILIGURI hina appears to be making the right noises about resumption of STUDIES ABROAD RESUMPTION OF TRADE trade with India through Nathula and Jelepla passes. While the GRE / GMAT / SAT / TOEFL / IELTS Coptimism might just be an exercise at generating some positive USA, UK, Canada, Australia, PR ahead of the Prime Minister’s China visit, it could be the only hope Cyprus, Switzerland, Singapore, etc. for places such as Gnathang which seem to have fallen off the map VISU CONSULTANTS with the closure of Indo-Tibet trade. Places like the shuttered rest-house ADMISSIONS IN INDIAN COLLEGES & shown alongside could open for business. UNIVERSITY ALSO GUARANTEED During the Indo-Tibet trading days, caravans headed for Lhasa from Contact: Babita Bihani (M-94340 12532) Kalimpong used to halt at the Gnathang village in East Sikkim for the B.Bihani & Associates, Above Kiran Optics, Hill Cart Rd., Siliguri, night before proceeding further. A huge wooden house, believed to have Ph: 2430650, 2434538 (O), 2434528(R) been built in 1886, was the only rest-house in the village. Also BE in Computing from Stafford Shire University The house still stands today, although it is now abandoned and in UK. iin India itself - APIIT SD INDIA an utter state of neglect. NOW! was informed by a local villager that the house belongs to a family from Kalimpong. The rest-house was last used some 40 years ago. NOW! pic and text SARIKAH ATREYA call us at 270949 Enough of Appeasement and Intimidation, Let’s Try Logic Now A re-evaluation of the Act is perhaps re- the reservation issue is not one that hints at a democracy be resolved. Thus far, the right Contd from pg 5 quired not only because new communities the possibility such a united resolution. Those sounds have not been made, it is perhaps something that will not go down well with need reservation, but also because Sikkim claiming to speak for the majority are also time that new voices emerge to force a MPs in the Lok Sabha. This point cannot be could soon have more seats in its Assembly. wrongly demanding a reduction in the resolution. Because the problem concerns ignored either since it is bound to surface When the Representation of People Act, number of seats reserved for the BLs. This three communities, it is important that each the moment the Act comes up for an amend- 1950 was amended to give 12 seats for the line of argument has already been thrown out finds its voice and then collaborates on a ment to reserve seats for the latest members BLs, the formula by which it was worked by the Supreme Court. If anything, they solution. Appeasement and initimidation of the Scheduled Tribes list - the Limbus and out was never explained. Should the number should be demanding reservations for the have already created enough confusion, let Tamangs. Also, because an amendment of of seats in Sikkim Legislative Assembly be Sikkimese Nepalese. As for the voice claim- us try logic for a chance. the Act is the only way that protection, by increased to 40 as demanded, or 60, as is the ing to be that of the BLs, they should remem- Given the emotions attached to the is- way of reserved seats, can be sought for the minimum strength in other States, on what ber that the twelve seats are not in threat of sue, politicians cannot be expected to come Sikkimese Nepalese, such examination can- formula will the new BL quota be worked diminishing [thanks to the SC judgement in up with the solution. The formula will have not be stalled either. The reservation for BLs out? At present we have none. the RC Paudyal case], but the danger is that to come from organisations outside the com- is bound to attract attention also because of Sikkim also needs to learn from the fi- they might remain 12 forever - even after promising limitations of politics and once the amount of hue and cry that has been made asco of 1979 and work out its arguments and the Assembly strength increases [since there such a formula gets widespread endorse- over the perceived threat to them when there suggestions before the Centre wakes up to seems to be no formula explaining how the ment, the politicians can step forward and was none. Now there is no escaping them need for an amendment. This is not a prob- figure of 12 was arrived at]. deliver it. It is a tough ask, but we are also unless we decide to continue with status quo lem that can be worked out in isolation and After twenty-eight years of becoming a faced by a complex problem created by the and allow a situation that has haunted Sik- requires colletive thought. At present, the part of India, it is time that the problem turbulent and fluid time when it was forced kim since its merger to continue. tone in which certain groups are talking about which came with Sikkim’s first elections as on Sikkim. UNBELIEVABLE!!! COMPAQ PRESARIO S3010IL AT Rs. 31,990/- (all inclusive)
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17 10; NOW! May 28-03 June, 2003 DEVELOPMENTDEVELOPMENT SREDA DOES IT AGAIN conventional Energy Sources, has also installed solar water heat- are no other means of cooking “The popularity of SREDA a NOW REPORT GoI, covers SREDA’s activities ing systems at a number of school fuel available. programmes can be gauged from over the year 2001-2002. hostels across the State. Mr. Tobgay, while outlining the enormous demand for various GANGTOK: Sikkim Renewable SREDA, informs its Director, In the field of biogas devel- the future plans of SREDA re- non-conventional energy devices Energy Development Agency KS Tobgay, has been involved in opment, SREDA has been pro- vealed that installation of solar promoted by us,” he said. [SREDA], an autonomous body the promotion of non-fossil energy moting the Deen Bandhu biogas power plants for Singtam district under the Rural Development De- sources such as solar, hydel, wind model and its initiative at train- hospital and STCS building is on The Agency is also involved partment, has once again been and biomass. Besides popularising ing masons on this model has re- the anvil. Micro hydel projects for in capacity-building in rural areas, awarded the first prize for imple- solar home lighting systems, solar sulted in the construction of about small unelectrified hamlets and it is learnt. It has now decided to mentation of Solar Voltaic Pro- street lights have also been in- 250 biogas plants in Sikkim every manufacture of solar lanterns us- involve village communities and gramme and National Project on stalled at important places such as year. These plants have found ing local material such as bamboo reputed NGOs in all its future Biogas Development. The award police check points at Rangpo, wide acceptability in rural areas and cane rank high on SREDA’s plans to ensure that its pro- instituted by the Ministry of Non- Melli and Ranipool. The Agency especially in places where there priority list, it is learnt. grammes are more people-centric. Hard work REMEMBERING THEIR VALOUR & GALLANTRY pays off for toppers Ganju Lama would have liked it a NOW REPORT When the British finally installed a “national memorial” at Westminister Abbey on May Daipeyan Bhattacharya a student 14, earlier this month, there was not a single dry eye in the gathering. Even the surviving of Tashi Namgyal Academy recepients of the highest awards for bravery in war, the Victoria and George Cross hold- topped ISC in Sikkim by scoring ers could not hold back their tears. This was an event Sikkim’s Ganju Lama would have 93.25 per cent in PCM. loved to be a part of. Sadly, he is no more. He was represented by his daughter. NOW! When NOW! tried to contact caught up with Rinchen Ongmu upon her return to understand just what the event means him, it was learnt that he had al- for those who won the medals and those they left behind... ready left for Bangalore. His her father late Capt. mother, Dr. Bhattacharya, a lec- They shall grow not old, as we that are PD, who won the decoration for Ganju Lama, while turer at Sikkim Government Col- left grow old: his actions in the Burma front dur- speaking to NOW! ad- lege, however spoke to NOW! and Age shall not weary them, nor the ing World War II. mitted that she could not said she was proud of her son’s years condemn. Engraved on Nabresina Stone, hold back her tears as the achievement. At the going down of the sun, and in with enlarged bronze and silver ceremony unfolded. “He is very sincere and the morning, crosses, the memorial plaque with “How I wished my father hardworking and always followed We will remember them the inscription “Remember their was alive to see this a strict routine of study hours in The High Commissioner of Malta at valour and gallantry,” was in- event,” she said. There the morning and evening. It was the ceremony on 14 May, 2003 stalled within the Abbey and un- were tears in every eye at his hard work that has fetched him All: We will remember them veiled by Her Majesty Queen Eliza- the ceremony as even the such good marks,” she said. reat Britain bestowed the beth II and the Duke of Edinburgh. living members of the Though the CBSE results are bravest of the brave a fit Over 1,400 descendants and 34 Victoria Cross fraternity A garlanded Ganju Lama being taken to a not yet officially out, information ting tribute on May 14, living holders of the awards were wept openly for their felicitation ceremony after being announced G as a recipient of the Victoria Cross available thus far pegs Gargi Roy earlier this year when a national present at the ceremony which was friends who were no of Holy Cross School as the topper memorial for Victoria Cross and supported by the British Govern- more to see the memorial come up. tional memorial in Britain could for class XII with 93 per cent in George Cross holders was in- ment and the royal family. “The brave recipients had become never come up. The idea was first PCM. She has already left for Delhi. stalled at the Westminster Abbey As the bugle sounded “the Last very close due to the annual reunions mooted only in 1995 and after The Principal and some teach- in central London. Post,” the holders and families, with in London and it was very moving to much careful consideration, the fi- ers of Holy Cross School told The special occasion was also pride and tears in their eyes, wit- see them miss their friends,” she said. nal design and location of the me- NOW! that Gargi Roy was an in- a proud moment for Sikkim with nessed the fulfilling of a long cher- Although there are many me- morial were decided upon. The telligent and hardworking student one of it’s sons representing the ished dream to see a national memo- morials throughout the world dedi- Victoria and George Cross Asso- and that they were sure that she State at the memorial in the form rial come up for the brave soldiers. cated to those who have received ciation raised funds and donations would top this examination. of Capt. Ganju Lama, VC, MM, Rinchen Ongmo, representing these highest decorations, a na- to give shape to the memorial. The Queen is the patron of the Asso- ciation with the Prince of Wales, Prince Charles, as the President of the Association. Inclusion of names of all the 1354 VC recipients and 155 GC holders was impractical so their names have been included in a ledger which serves as the com- panion to the memorial. Ganju Lama was awarded the VC for his action against the Japa- fresh everyday nese at Ninthoukong on the Burma front where he destroyed five Japanese enemy tanks single- PRESENTS handedly. Although severely wounded, he overcame advancing enemy tanks and saved a desper- ate situation during the campaign. In a similar situation, a week ear- SLICEof Life is not what you find, it’s what you create - Oscar Wilde lier he had destroyed two enemy tanks for which he was awarded the Military Medal. Lord Louis This week, try out the different lures of Mango, Mountbatten, the then Supreme LIFE the king of fruits at our Mango Festival Commander of the allied forces in south east Asia, recognizing the turn to pg 11

18 May 28-03 June, 2003; NOW! 11 RECAPRECAP SIKKIMSIKKIM WANT TO STUDY IN BANGALORE? RAILWAY PASSENGER BOOKING DEADLOCK RESOLVED The best city for students in Asia ATTENTION 10+2 & GRADUATES!! Deptt. pays up, NFR agrees Free Counseling (Admn. Guidance & Registration strictly under NRI/Mgnt. Quota) to keep counter open MBBS, BDS, B.Pharma, D.PharmaEngineering/ though the Transport Department Two of the staff running the Polytechnic (All branch)BCA, BBM, BBA, BHMMBA, a NOW REPORT had never shown signs of reneging counter was charged with embezzle- on its commitment, officials at the ment. Subsequently, Meghraj Chettri, MCA, Aircraft Maintaince Engg.B.A., PUC, BPT, MTA, GANGTOK: The Transport Depart- NFR had often threatened to close DGM Railway, and N. Dahal, Super- B.Sc./M.Sc (Comp. Electronics, Biotech, ment has finally resolved the contro- down the counter. The matter ap- intendent, of the Transport Depart- Microbiology, Genetics, Nursing) etc. versy surrounding the Passenger pears resolved now with the De- ment, were chargesheeted and ar- Reservation System (PRS) counter partment paying NFR Rs. 85 lakhs rested. They are now out on bail. Contact us between 27th May-10th June. at the SNT depot here by clearing all in two instalments. The balance of A part payment of Rs. 55 lakhs Timing: 10:00 AM to 08:00 PM the dues outstanding with the North- Rs. 1.25 crores shown as outstand- was made to NFR on March 15, Venue: Hotel Asia, P.S.Road, Gangtok eastern Frontier Railways. ing will reportedly get adjusted with earlier this year, the last date set Ever since reports of misap- the dues accruing to the Depart- by NFR for payment. Last week, Phone: 9832072104,9434012054 propriation of funds at the coun- ment for handling the NFR account the remaining amount of Rs. 25 Head office: ter surfaced sometime in August in Sikkim. lakhs were paid clearing all dues. Dakshin Bhartiya Educational Consultants Pvt. Ltd. last year, the counter’s fate has A major scam was unearthed last With the dues paid, the NFR is #241, 20, C Cross, Egipura, PO: Viveknagar, Bangalore-560047 hung on a balance with NFR of- year when NFR complained of huge likely to renew its agreement with Tel/Fax: 080-5716047, 080-5703747, 9845072319 ten threatening to down shutters if dues still pending in 2002. The money the Department on continuing with E-mail: [email protected] www.bangaloreedu.com the dues were not paid up. collected from passengers at the com- the counter in Gangtok. A verbal The “scam” involves alleged puterized booking terminal amount- commitment to this effect were misappropriation of some Rs. 1.25 ing to Rs. 1.25 crores had never made by the NFR General Man- Panasonic DVC Palm Size crores by some officials manning reached the NFR office in Guwahati. ager, Vipin Nanda, it is learnt. Digital Video Camera the counter between January 1997 FOR SALE!!! to November 2001. CONTACT: 225082 / 228840 The case is being investigated NO PLACE TOO REMOTE by the Vigilance Directorate now. CONGRATULATIONS TOPPERS OF CBSE & ISC CLass XII Informed sources reveal that al- DEY SIR (CHEMISTRY TEACHER) AND MRS. SOMA DEY OF CAREER’S COUN- FOR DRUG AWARENESS SELLING, TIBET ROAD CONGRATULATE TO ALL WHO HAVE SECURED SPLEN- not a major problem in the area, DID PERFORMANCES BY RAISING THE NAME & FAME OF SIKKIM. SPECIALLY Gangtok to a NOW REPORT Santosh Pradhan, IC, Sombaria THE FOLLOWINGS: return in a elaborated on the stringent provi- 1. GARGY RAI (HOLY CROSS SSS) 6. TINA GURUNG (DEORALI SSS) SOMBARIA: A one-day Anti sion of the Narcotic Drugs and Psy- 2. RAJIV RANJHAN JHA (KENDRIYA 7. DEPENDRA HAMAL (TNA) nutshell Drugs Awareness Camp was held chotropic Substance Act. PK Rai, VIDHYALAYA) 8. NEETI PANDAY (KV) GANGTOK: An updated version at Sombaria Senior Secondary Master of Ceremonies said, “In- 3. ATUL JAIN (HOLY CROSS) 9. MANISH VERMA (ENCHEY SSS) 4. PUNAM AGARWAL (PNGSSS) 10. DEO KUMARI (RONGLI SSS) of "Gangtok in a Nutshell", with a School on May 20, 2003. stead of ignoring the problem and Organized by the United So- opting for treatment later, it is bet- 5. ASHISH JHA, ADITI KHANNA, 11. RAJIV SHARMA ( TNSSS) bird's eye view artist impression KIRAN SINGH (HOLY CROSS) of Gangtok, is soon to be released cial Awareness Committee, the ter to devise preventive measures.” in the market. New pictures are camp was well attended. PJ Prad- Concluding the camp, Ruben ** WE WILL BE GLAD FOR EVER TO HAVE WITH THEM THROUGH OUT THE 2002-2003 ACADEMIC YEAR being included to add even more han, counsellor and resource per- Rai, Principal, English Model son, was invited to deliver a de- School stressed on the need for a ** FREE COUNSELLING IS GOING ON FOR HIGHER STUDIES. gloss to the already well produced CONTACT: DEY SIR, TIBET ROAD, TELE- 226510 (R) / 94341 53355 (M) brochure. Although no advertise- tailed presentation on drug-related joint effort to combat this problem. ments are being collected for the issues. He was accompanied by This is the first time that such DIRECT ADMISSION IN BANGALORE, DELHI, NAGPUR Snehlata Rai and Marthamit Lep- a camp was held at Sombaria. Al- new version, free entries will be I.S.C & C.B.S.E XII PASSED STUDENTS (ARTS, COMMERCE, PCM, PCB) CON- given to anyone associated directly cha, both 3rd year students at Sik- though local residents were not TACT FOR SPOT ADMISSION in MBBS/BDS/BSc (in Comp Sc, Bio Tech, Micro Bio) or indirectly with the tourism sec- kim Government College. keen to acknowledge that the prob- BBA/BCA/MBA/MCA/MSc (Micro Bio/Bio Tech) under Management Quota (Also Hotel tor. Anyone interested in a men- Pradhan developed a radio lem existed there, the fact that the Management/ BSc. (Nursing)).
tion can contact Milestones Next play which had students from camp was organised shows the LOWEST Donation in MBBS* / BDS / BPT Sombaria Sr. Sec. School narrat- concern among the authorities and
NO DONATION in Engineerings. at 225082 / 228840.
ing the progression of drug abuse health workers. The committee NO DONATION in BCA / MCA
DONATION 20 THOUSAND Onwards in Bio Tech / Bio Chem as a disease within a family. Pre- also visited remote areas to moti- GANJU LAMA * within 7 days in Bangalore, 12 Lakh Package senting a paper on the occasion, vate drug users to come forward Salient Features: * Free Prospectus * Post Admission Guidance * Free College Tour * contd from pg 10 Pradhan emphasized on the need for treatment. Sikkimese Hostel Arrangement. two feats within two weeks had to look at addiction as a disease. “Such programmes should not Contact: Admission Co-Ordinator = Mrs. Soma Dey (Wife of Dey Sir) of “Career’s Coun- even described Ganju Lamas VC “Addiction is not just a habit. It be just held once a year. Drug selling”, Tibet Road, Gangtok. Phone: 226510 (R) / 9434153355 (M) as the “most richly deserved in the is a progressive disease and needs awareness should now be a part of Head Office: 14/1, MG Road, Bangalore, Tele 098440 56308
entire far eastern theatre of war.” to be treated as a medical problem. school curriculum. We can’t keep Registration is going on.
We have offices in Calcutta, Siliguri, Gouhati, Agartala, Darjeeling, Alipurduar Few would have deserved a “na- People should not place value judge- pretending that the problem is not tional memorial” in London more ment on it,” he told the gathering. there and will just go away,” says than Ganju Lama and his clique. Admitting that drugs was still Pradhan. Anthyesthi Kriya Anthyesthi The Anthyesthi Kriya of Late Ganesh Suji, r/o Lingeythang Chankho; 14th Day Ghewa Kriya Busty, Pakyong , East Sikkim The funeral of our beloved mother Late Nazung Dorjee, w/o Late The Anthyesthi Kriya who left for his heavenly abode S. G. Dorjee (Pedong Kazi) was held at Pedong on 21st May 2003 of my late son on 18 May 2003 falls on 30 May and we would like to express our sincere gratitude to one and all 2003. All relatives, friends and who came in large numbers to attend the funeral and shared our Ashutosh Pathak, S.I. well wishers are requested to join sorrow at the time of our bereavement. We also regret our inability India Reserve us in offering prayers for the de- to thank them individually. The Chankho (14th Day Ghewa) will be performed at the ancestral Batallion (on Deputa- parted soul at our residence. we house at Kazi Kothi, Sakyong, Pedong on Friday 30 May 2003. tion to CBI) will be held also thank all those who helped Hence, all are requested to kindly join us in offering prayers in the us during our hour of bereave- memory of the departed soul. on 1st June 2003 at 1. ment and regret our inability to Rinchen, Samten & Tshering Dorjee (sons), Hishey Ongmu, Anila, Tshering PM in the Campus. do so individually. Doma & Tshering Pem (daughters), Daugher in Laws, Son In Laws & host of P. C. Pathak & Family Dinesh Suji (son), Uma Suji grandsons, granddaughters, great grandsons & great granddaughters. TNA Campus; Phone: 225632 (daughter), & all family members

FOUND An original and attested Other Backward Caste certificate of one Binod Subba of Timberbong, West Sikkim. The document is with the NOW! Office and the person may come and collect it anyday.

19 12; NOW! May 28-03 June, 2003 RECAPRECAP SIKKIMSIKKIM NOW, WATCH SANU LAMA’S WORK IN HINDI cal actors. Apart from Chunnilal loved filming here. Leave aside the a NOW REPORT Ghimeray, who has already es- beauty of the place, the people here sayed the roles of a doctor and are so warm and friendly. We hope ell known Nepali au- engineer in the two serials, there to keep coming back,” replies thor and Sahitya are no local artistes in the series. Rinchen Doma, the producer, who WAkademi Purashkar “All the artistes have been has an affinity to the hills, coming winner, Sanu Lama has added one brought from Delhi. We are yet to as she does from Arunachal Pradesh. more feather to his cap. find any local actors. The problem The film crew are still on the His books “Payu Phule Ko Din” is basically about correct Hindi dic- lookout for local artistes to play and “Mrigyatrishna” are now being tion. We are dubbing sound on lo- some of the roles. Those interested filmed as a Hindi series for cation and for this we need actors can contact Chunnilal Ghimeray Doordarshan. This is the first time that who can speak the language cor- at 9832054984. a local writer’s work is going to be rectly and well,” says Ghimeray, showcased on the national network. who is also the local coordinator “I’m very happy with the film- and resource-person on the serial. ing. It is a matter of pride for the state The books have been trans- and will encourage other writers too,” lated from Nepali to Hindi by re- said Mr. Lama, speaking to NOW! search students from Jawaharlal The series is funded under a special Nehru University, New Delhi. allocation made by the central gov- Have they managed to capture ernment to promote the culture and the essence of the book? Drangchu Beverages lifestyle of the Northeastern states. “Yes, the translation is quite The shooting for the episodes good. It has been done by learned ANNOUNCES started on April 26 and will con- Nepali students and I am happy tinue for the next two months. with it,” says Mr. Lama. “Al- Locations are as varied as Nam- though I hope someday they can “Under The Crown Scheme” chi Blind School, Temi Tarku, dub this in Nepali too,” he adds. Rumtek, Ranka and areas sur- Ask the director why he chose (for the state of Sikkim only) rounding the capital. these books and he says, “I was “I was very keen to shoot on looking for the works of a Sahitya TH TH location here to give an authentic Akademi Purashkar winner. Thus FROM 15 MAY TO 14 JULY ‘03’ feel to the serial. I did not recourse I came across these books. Read- Check the inside of the crown to the easy option of shooting at ing them I found that although they some hill -station near Delhi. That are based on local themes and en- There may be a surprise would not have done justice to vironment, the issues they touched, waiting for you... Sanu Lama’s books,” reveals the things like urban migration etc. had director, Ramchandra Sahu. a universal appeal and viewers eve- For all the attempts at rywhere could relate to them.” 1st Prize TRIP TO BANGKOK FOR TWO / CASH IN LIEU authencity, the one thing that the So how has their experience of 2nd Prize REFRIGERATOR GODREJ (220L) shoot lacks is the presence of lo- shooting in Sikkim been? “We just 3rd Prize MOBILE PHONE with GSM

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CUT OUT & from 1 to 9 June 2003 PRESENT THIS SPECIAL OFFER COUPON TO AVAIL offering:HP Deskjet 3325 from 1 to 9 June 2003 qqqq Buy Genuine 5% HP Cartridge 5% DISCOUNT Rs. 2999/- ON MG Marg CARTRIDGES Gangtok CUT OUT & Sikkim PRESENT THIS only at: Amber Ent. Ph: 255116 / 228849 COUPON TO AVAIL Published by Lt. Col. (retd) P. Dorjee and printed at Choice International, Daragaon. Editor: Pema Wangchuk. Now! Near Ayurvedi c Clinic, Gairi Gaon, Tadong. East Sikkim. ph: 03592 270949 email: [email protected]

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