The Sikkim Today, MP Golai, Tadong, East, Gangtok (2026)

13/09/2026

BRICS 2026: Security Takes Centre Stage as India Balances Defence and Strategic Autonomy

The 2026 BRICS Summit in New Delhi has brought security issues into sharper focus, with member countries looking at ways to cooperate on terrorism, maritime safety, emerging technologies and regional conflicts. Yet, despite closer defence ties among some members, the grouping appears unlikely to evolve into a formal military alliance.

The summit takes place amid an increasingly unsettled international environment. Conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia have affected shipping routes, energy markets and global supply chains, giving security concerns a larger place in discussions that have traditionally centred on economics and development.

For India, the challenge is particularly delicate. New Delhi maintains a longstanding defence relationship with Moscow while simultaneously strengthening its strategic engagement with Washington, European countries and partners in the Gulf. The approach reflects India's preference for maintaining freedom of action rather than joining competing power blocs.

This balancing act was evident in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 11. The two leaders discussed bilateral defence cooperation and the effects of conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea on maritime commerce and Indian sailors. Their talks also reaffirmed the broader strategic partnership between India and Russia.

Security cooperation within BRICS, however, has its limitations. The expanded grouping contains countries with contrasting geopolitical interests. India and China remain strategic rivals, while the Middle Eastern members have different priorities on regional conflicts. These differences make agreement on a common military doctrine extremely difficult.

Rather than creating a joint military structure, BRICS is increasingly concentrating on areas where cooperation is more achievable. Counter-terrorism, intelligence exchanges, cyber security, protection of critical infrastructure and the safety of international shipping offer potential avenues for collaboration.

Maritime security has gained particular importance for India. Recent conflicts have shown that attacks or instability in strategic waterways can quickly affect trade, fuel supplies and the wider global economy. India's push for greater cooperation on the protection of seafarers and maritime trade therefore gives the BRICS security agenda a practical dimension.

Russia, meanwhile, has promoted a stronger role for BRICS in shaping an international system less dependent on Western institutions. Moscow has argued that the grouping can provide emerging economies with greater influence over global political and economic decisions, particularly at a time of rising tensions between Russia and Western countries.

China has also supported a broader role for BRICS, including closer cooperation in technology, finance, trade and global governance. Beijing's position gives the grouping an additional strategic dimension, although India has remained cautious about allowing BRICS to be portrayed as an anti-Western coalition.

For New Delhi, the distinction is important. India wants BRICS to strengthen the voice of developing countries while preserving its own room for manoeuvre in international affairs. It continues to cooperate with Russia on defence and energy while deepening security and economic relations with the United States, Europe, Japan, Gulf countries and Israel.

The 2026 summit therefore reflects a gradual expansion of BRICS' security role rather than the emergence of a collective defence organisation. The grouping has no common military command, mutual-defence commitment or unified strategic doctrine.

Its future security cooperation is more likely to develop through practical initiatives — including counter-terrorism, maritime protection, intelligence sharing, cyber security, defence technology and safeguarding critical trade routes.

The challenge will be maintaining cooperation among countries whose strategic interests frequently diverge. India-China tensions, differing positions over Ukraine and competing interests in West Asia could limit how far the members are prepared to go on defence matters.

For India, however, a flexible BRICS security framework could prove valuable. It allows New Delhi to work with Russia, China, Iran and other members on specific international security concerns without committing itself to a military bloc.

The New Delhi summit has consequently reinforced BRICS as a broader strategic forum. Its evolution is likely to be gradual: not a BRICS version of NATO, but a network in which countries cooperate selectively on security while retaining independent defence and foreign policies.

13/09/2026

Opposition Politics Must Not Be Built on Half-Truths

Over the past few days, statements circulated by the Citizens Action Party on social media regarding the community-based reservation of an MBBS seat have raised a serious and sensitive issue.

The allegation is that a medical seat reserved for the Bhutia-Lepcha (BL) community has been allotted to a person who does not belong to that community. The principal basis being projected for this allegation appears to be the student’s surname, “Lama”.

If such an allegation were true, it would undoubtedly be a serious matter. Community-based reservation is governed by constitutional and legal provisions, and every citizen has the right to demand that the reservation system be implemented fairly and correctly.

However, such a serious allegation cannot be established merely by looking at a surname.

As a responsible citizen, I took the matter seriously and examined the facts and documents available to us. The documentary records tell a very different story.

The Scheduled Tribe Certificate issued by the competent authority, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Rabongla, in March 2025, records Ms. Chanana Lama, daughter of Shri Gopal Lama, as belonging to the Bhutia community. Her father is also stated to hold the relevant community documentation.

Further, the Certificate of Identification issued by the competent authority, the District Collector, Namchi, traces the family lineage to the old Sikkim Subject Register, where family members are recorded under the Bhutia identity.

There is also an Affidavit/Declaration dated 9 June 2013, duly sworn before a Notary Public, in which Shri Gopal Lama declared that he is also known as Gopal Bhutia and that Gopal Lama and Gopal Bhutia are one and the same person. The affidavit further records that he is the biological son of Late Angu Bhutia and Late Denji Bhutia and that his name “Gopal Lama” was derived from his mythological horoscope. It states that he would henceforth be known and recorded as Gopal Lama (Bhutia) in official correspondence.
Similarly, I would like to proudly cite the example of VC Ganju Lama Lama, who was awarded the Victoria Cross (VC). Although his surname is “Lama”, he belonged to the Bhutia community. This itself demonstrates that a surname cannot, by itself, be taken as the determining factor of a person’s community identity.
I would also like to cite the example of former NJNP President Shri Pavitra Manav. His original name was Pavitra Kumar Sharma, and he belongs to the Nepali community. Subsequently, of his own free will, he legally changed his surname and adopted “Manav” as his surname. He is now officially recorded as Pavitra Manav. However, despite the change of surname, he and his family continue to enjoy the rights and benefits of State OBC reservation because his original surname, Sharma, is included in the State OBC list.
These examples clearly demonstrate that a person’s surname alone cannot determine or establish his or her community identity. Community status is a matter of lineage, legal recognition and official documentation, and must be examined accordingly .
These are not documents created on social media or produced after the MBBS seat became an issue. They are official and legally executed records issued, attested or verified through competent authorities and established procedures.

Therefore, the allegation that a BL-reserved MBBS seat was simply given to someone belonging to another community is not supported by the official documents that have been brought to our notice.

A surname cannot determine a person’s community

This point needs to be made very clearly.

A surname does not, by itself, determine a person’s tribal identity.

The constitutional framework governing Scheduled Tribes in Sikkim recognises “Bhutia” as a Scheduled Tribe, encompassing different groups and communities. Historically, Sikkim has had Bhutia families carrying different surnames, including Kazi, Yalmo, Sherpa , Ethenpa , Ghensapa, Lama, Lagindipa, Thakarpa and various clan or family names.

There are also numerous instances in which individuals adopt, modify or change their surnames according to personal, familial, cultural or customary preferences. Such a change can be formally declared through an affidavit and completed through the other legal procedures prescribed for the relevant official records. A person’s surname may change, but that change alone neither creates nor extinguishes the person’s community identity. Community status must be determined from lineage, official records and certificates issued by the competent authorities—not merely from a surname.

Therefore, asking, “How can a person with the surname Lama be Bhutia?” is not a legally or factually sufficient basis to question an individual’s tribal identity.

If surnames alone were used to determine community identity, many genuine members of our communities could unjustly find their identity questioned.

There is a legal process for questioning certificates

If anyone genuinely believes that a Scheduled Tribe Certificate or Certificate of Identification has been wrongly issued, there is an established legal procedure.

The competent government authorities have the power to examine the underlying records and verification. If a certificate is found to have been obtained improperly, the law provides mechanisms for cancellation and appeal, and ultimately judicial review.

The Supreme Court, in its well-known judgment in Madhuri Patil, established the importance of proper scrutiny and verification of caste and tribe certificates through the competent authorities rather than through public allegations.

That principle is fundamental: documents must be examined by the authority competent to examine them, and disputed questions of legal entitlement must be decided through due process.

So, if the Citizens Action Party genuinely has evidence that the certificate is false, wrongly issued or legally invalid, I would respectfully suggest a very simple course of action:

Approach the competent authority. Produce the evidence. Ask for an enquiry. Let the official records be examined. If necessary, pursue the matter before the appropriate judicial forum.

That is the proper democratic and legal route.

What is not acceptable is to put a young student and her family on trial on social media without first approaching the government authorities responsible for issuing and verifying these documents.

Politics must not come at the cost of social harmony

What concerns me even more is the manner in which this issue has been presented.

A young student, who has worked hard to earn admission to medical college, has suddenly found her name and her family’s identity being discussed publicly—not because any competent authority has declared her certificate invalid, but because questions have been raised about her surname.

This is deeply unfair.

Sikkim is a small State where communities have lived together for generations. Our social harmony is one of our greatest strengths. Political parties have every right to question the government, raise issues and demand accountability. That is the essence of democracy.

But opposition politics must be based on facts, not assumptions; evidence, not insinuations; and law, not social-media trials.

If there are discrepancies in dates or details appearing in different documents, those too can and should be examined by the competent authorities. A discrepancy in a document does not automatically establish fraud or disqualification. It must be investigated, explained and decided according to law.

Likewise, public accusations that damage an individual’s reputation can have serious legal consequences. Statements that are defamatory or that deliberately promote hostility between communities may attract legal scrutiny under the applicable provisions of law.

This is not a threat to anyone. It is simply a reminder that freedom of political expression carries responsibility, and public allegations are not beyond the law.

Let the records speak

I strongly believe that genuine concerns about reservation must always be investigated. If there has been any wrongdoing, the law must take its course, whoever is responsible.

But the same principle must apply in the other direction: an innocent citizen must not be branded guilty before any competent authority has found wrongdoing.

We should not allow a sensitive issue concerning community reservation to become an instrument for creating suspicion and division.

The people of Sikkim deserve facts—not half-truths.

They deserve accountability—not allegations without verification.

They deserve responsible opposition—not politics built around someone’s surname.

And most importantly, our young people and our communities deserve to live with dignity and harmony.

I therefore appeal to the Citizens Action Party and all political parties to exercise restraint, verify facts before making serious allegations, and use the constitutional and legal mechanisms available to establish the truth.

If there is evidence, present it before the competent authority.

If there is a genuine legal violation, let the law decide.

But until then, let us not destroy a young person’s dignity and a family’s reputation through social-media allegations.

Let the documents speak.
Let the competent authority examine.
Let the law decide.
And let the truth prevail.

As the Dhammapada reminds us:

“Hatred is never appeased by hatred; by non-hatred alone is hatred appeased.”

Sikkim’s peace and social harmony are far more valuable than any momentary political advantage.

Jacob Khaling
Political Secretary to Hon’ble Chief Minister
Government of Sikkim

13/09/2026

Phalman S***a and team release Teej awareness video, spreading messages of unity, empowerment, culture, and social awareness.

13/09/2026

CM PS Golay Writes:

Met with members of the Indrajatra Celebration Committee, Sikkim Newar Guthi, in preparation for the upcoming State-Level Indrajatra celebration to be held at Manan Kendra.

Indrajatra is a vibrant celebration that reflects the rich cultural heritage, traditions and community spirit of the Newar community. It is heartening to see the community coming together to preserve, promote and pass on these cherished traditions to future generations.

I extended my warmest greetings and best wishes to the entire Newar community for a grand and successful celebration. May this year’s Indrajatra bring joy, prosperity and togetherness, while further strengthening our shared commitment to preserving Sikkim’s diverse cultural heritage.

13/09/2026

Young Athletes Participate in 8th North East Pencak Silat Championship

Agartala, Tripura: The 8th North East Pencak Silat Championship 2026 was organised in Agartala, Tripura, bringing together young athletes from across the North East and providing them with an opportunity to demonstrate their skills and competitive spirit.

The championship served as an important platform for encouraging young sporting talent and promoting discipline, determination and excellence among the region’s youth. Sporting events of this nature also contribute to strengthening the culture of sports in Tripura and motivating young athletes to aim for success at national and international competitions.

Representing the young participants from Sikkim were Anudeep Watsa Sharma, Aimee Watsa Sharma, Manan Gurung, Nareep Lepcha and Sanvi Pradhan.

The participants are associated with Adhayaan Institute, Kidzee, Namthang–Rateypani. Their participation in the championship reflects the growing enthusiasm among children and young athletes towards Pencak Silat and other sporting disciplines.

13/09/2026

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13/09/2026

Sikkim’s Bir Bahadur Rai Makes History with Victory at Malaysia Ultra Trail by UTMB

Professional trail runner Bir Bahadur Rai from Salgari in Namchi district has brought laurels to Sikkim and India by winning the MY25 category at the Malaysia Ultra Trail by UTMB, an international trail-running event held in Taiping, Perak, Malaysia, on September 12, 2026.

He delivered an outstanding performance in the challenging 25-kilometre category, completing the course in an impressive 2 hours and 25 minutes to secure the top position.

The victory marks a significant milestone in Rai’s trail-running career and is a proud moment for Sikkim’s growing trail-running community.

With his podium finish, Bir Bahadur Rai has become the first Indian runner to secure a podium finish in the 25K category of the UTMB Series, creating a notable milestone for Indian trail running on the international stage.

13/09/2026

Santa Pradhan Honoured for Decades of Social, Religious and Cultural Contribution

Santa Pradhan a dedicated Social Worker and Community Leader from Upper Lumsey
Santa Pradhan, a resident of Upper Lumsey, has been actively involved in social and community service for several decades. She has been associated with 5th Saraswati Dolma Mandir since its establishment in 1985, serving as a dedicated member and social worker.

Over the years, she has contributed to various social, religious and cultural activities and has been associated with Sai Samiti and 5th Mile Mandir, supporting community welfare and religious programmes.

Since 2024, Santa Pradhan has been serving as the Vice President of the 5th mile Saraswati Dolma Mandir , continuing her efforts towards community development and social welfare.

13/09/2026

Sikkim’s Ashis Limboo Wins 2nd Mr. Northeast Bodybuilding Physique Championship

Sikkim’s Ashis Limboo has brought pride and laurels to the state by securing the 2nd Mr. Northeast Bodybuilding Physique Championship at the regional competition held in Nagaland.

13/09/2026

Palitam Youth Club Marks 32nd Foundation Day with Grand Pre-Teej Celebration in Namthang

The Palitam Youth Club (PYC), Namthang, celebrated its 32nd Foundation Day with a vibrant Pre-Teej Celebration 2026 on Saturday, bringing together dignitaries, former and present club members, women, children and local residents.

The day-long programme was organised in two phases, combining the commemoration of the Club’s 32-year journey with a colourful celebration of Teej and the community’s rich cultural traditions.

The first phase began with the hoisting of the Palitam Youth Club flag by Chief Guest Shri Sanjeet Kharel, Hon’ble Area MLA-cum-Advisor, Power Department, Government of Sikkim. The ceremonial lamp was subsequently lit by the Chief Guest along with Special Guests Madam Asha Kharel, Shri Arjun Bomzan, Retired Superintendent of Police, and Smt. Indra Kumari Karki, Hon’ble Zilla Panchayat.

Following the welcome address by Shri D. M. Tamang, the dignitaries were felicitated by the Executive Members of the Club. A cake-cutting ceremony was also held to mark the Club’s 32nd Foundation Day.

The cultural segment began with an opening dance presented by students of Government Primary School, Palitam. Shri T. P. Dhungel, Treasurer of the Club, presented a report tracing the history and journey of the organization. Cultural performances by Club members, including a performance by the Sakara Band of Palitam, added further colour to the celebrations.

A Token of Love was presented to Chief Guest Shri Sanjeet Kharel by Mr. N. G. Bomzan and the Executive Members in recognition of his mentorship, support and encouragement to the Club.

The Club also expressed gratitude to Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim Shri P. S. Golay Tamang for providing a Club House under the SKM Government in 2023. Madam Asha Kharel was also acknowledged for her continued support and her contribution towards encouraging women’s participation and empowerment.

A special felicitation was accorded to Shri B. N. Pradhan of Kalimpong, Guest of Honour, for his significant role in mentoring the youth and facilitating the formation and registration of the Palitam Youth Club under the Government of Sikkim during 1994–95. His contribution to various events, functions and social-service activities of the Club was also recognized. The felicitation citation was recited by Dr. Tanka Prasad Dhungel and presented by the Chief Guest.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Sanjeet Kharel congratulated the Club on successfully completing 32 years and appreciated its contribution to the local community. He assured continued support for infrastructure development and encouraged the Club members to undertake more initiatives for the health, welfare and holistic development of villagers, making optimum use of the Club House.

The second phase of the programme was dedicated to the Pre-Teej Celebration 2026. Shri B. N. Pradhan addressed the gathering, following which Shri Arjun Bomzan, Retired Senior Superintendent of Police, was nominated as the Chief Guest and felicitated through a traditional garlanding ceremony.

The significance of Teej and its cultural heritage was highlighted by Shri Balaram Dahal, Poet, Writer and Retired Employee. A traditional Sangini Dance and other cultural performances were presented as part of efforts to preserve and promote local traditions.

A major highlight of the celebration was the special felicitation of married sisters, or Chelis, who had been active members of the Club since its foundation and are now residing in different parts of Sikkim and outside the State. Their longstanding association and contributions to the Club were acknowledged with appreciation.

One of the felicitated Chelis, Smt. Tuku Dhungel, shared her experiences and recalled her association with the Club over the years.

The programme also featured a Talent Hunt and Musical Chairs for women and female children, with prizes awarded to the winners. Mementoes and souvenirs were presented to invited guests as tokens of appreciation.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Shri Arjun Bomzan extended his best wishes to the Palitam Youth Club and appreciated the initiative of combining the Foundation Day with a cultural celebration. He urged the members to continue their community service, social initiatives and cultural activities in the years ahead.

The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks proposed by Mr. Rudra Prasad Dhungel, Former Panchayat Vice-President-cum-Former President of the Palitam Youth Club, followed by a traditional Teej special lunch, “Dar,” for participants and guests.

The programme was conducted by Mr. Mukund Dhungel and Smt. Sabitri Adhikari as Masters of Ceremony.

The celebration reflected the Palitam Youth Club’s three-decade-long journey of community service, cultural preservation, women’s participation and social development, while reaffirming its commitment to the welfare and overall development of the local community.

The Sikkim Today

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