Sikkim Leader Demands Answers Over Proposed Fourth Pathway

Gangtok: Tseten Tashi Bhutia is demanding answers. The Sikkim Bhutia Lepcha Apex Committee convenor wants the state government to explain a mysterious Fourth Pathway mentioned in a July 2026 draft document. Economist Prof Mahendra P Lama authored the report. Bhutia acts as Chief Advisor to the state BJP unit.

Lama claims the controversial section was cut from the final August submission to the Centre. It allegedly contained only three pathways. Bhutia remains skeptical. He demands documentary evidence to prove Sikkim stays out of any territorial deals involving Gorkhaland or North Bengal. He filed eight specific questions regarding who authorized the inclusion and removal of the pathway. The government must confirm if it knew about the report before its release.

Bhutia also highlighted anxieties over demographic shifts and undocumented migration. He clarified his stance. "These concerns were not directed at any particular community or at what he described as the legitimate democratic aspirations of Indian Gorkhas," his statement noted. The former minister now wants Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to act. He called for a formal resolution before the Sikkim Legislative Assembly to lock in protections under Article 371F. Transparency is the priority. The state must defend its strategic interests or issue an apology if staff acted without authorization.