Sikkim High Court Sets December Deadline for Law College Renovations

Gangtok: The Sikkim High Court cleared the path for the Sikkim Government Law College in Burtuk to finish its infrastructure overhaul. Chief Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque and Justice Bhaskar Raj Pradhan reviewed the case on November 4 during a suo motu public interest litigation hearing. Work continues. The state government met almost all court mandates regarding the building's repair.

Officials submitted a Structural Feasibility Report from the Buildings and Housing Department on October 26. Additional Advocate General Zangpo Sherpa confirmed the renovations will wrap up by December 22, 2026. The Bench accepted this timeline. However, the court ordered the state to secure a structural stability certificate and install fire safety systems before students move back in.

Former students are now stepping up to help. Deputy Solicitor General of India Sangita Pradhan and advocate Gita Bista volunteered to start an Alumni Association to boost student resources. The court praised the move. The Bench noted that the state had complied with "almost all" of its earlier directions.

Attendees at the hearing included Government Advocates Thinlay Dorjee Bhutia and S. K. Chettri, Assistant Government Advocate Sujan Sunwar, and Fact-Finding Committee member Kazi Sangay Thupden. Vice Principal Dr. Jigme Dorjee Bhutia and law student Tilak Sharma were also present. The court adjourned the matter until after the winter vacation.