GANGTOK: A Tibetan parliamentary delegation met with Shri Prem Singh Tamang, commonly known as Golay, the Chief Minister of Sikkim, at his official residence in Mintokgang. The delegation consisted of MPs Youdon Aukatsang, Geshe Monlam Tharchin, and Tashi Dhondup.
Tibetan parliamentarians presented the Chief Minister with a Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile (TPiE) souvenir, an appeal letter, and documents outlining the Tibetan cause. They urged him to continue supporting the Tibetan community residing in Sikkim, in line with the state’s 2018 documents adopted under India’s Tibetan Rehabilitation Policy of 2014. The delegation also proposed the appointment of a Tibetan coordinator in the state, similar to the Executive Councillor appointed by the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Leh to oversee Tibetan welfare.
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Chief Minister Golay expressed his deep respect for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and assured the delegation of his ongoing support for the Tibetan community in Sikkim. He also informed the MPs of plans to appoint a Public Relations Officer (PRO) to liaise with the Tibetan community in the state.
The meeting also explored the possibility of organizing a summit of Chief Ministers from Indian states in the Himalayan region, including Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Sikkim, West Bengal, and Himachal Pradesh. The aim would be to adopt guidelines for extending support to the Tibetan cause and the Tibetan communities residing in these states.
During the meeting, Chief Minister Golay inquired about the functioning of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, and the parliamentarians provided comprehensive answers to his questions. The Chief Minister honored the Tibetan lawmakers with mementos and hosted a dinner in their honor.
The Tibetan delegates were accompanied by TSO Lhakpa Tsering and Domey President Pema Wangdak during their visit.
This meeting marks another significant step in strengthening the relationship between the Tibetan community and the state of Sikkim, as both parties look to foster mutual support and understanding.
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