On Friday, May 16, 2025, Sikkim celebrated its 50th Statehood Day, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi extending his congratulations to the people of Sikkim. In a post on X, Modi lauded Sikkim's serene beauty, rich cultural traditions, and the industrious nature of its people, also noting the strides it has made across diverse sectors. He wished the people of Sikkim continued prosperity.
Sikkim officially became a part of the Indian Union on May 16, 1975, following a referendum, becoming its 22nd state. Before this, it had protectorate status under India since the country's independence in 1947.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang also shared his thoughts on the state's historic day. He extended his best wishes to every Sikkimese person, noting that May 16, 1975, marked a crucial turning point in their history, embracing a future filled with promises, unity, and democratic aspirations. Tamang reaffirmed the state's commitment to building a "Sunaulo Sikkim, Samridha Sikkim, ani Samarth Sikkim" — a golden, prosperous, and capable Sikkim — aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Viksit Bharat.
Celebrations included a Tiranga rally led by Chief Minister Tamang from MG Marg to Paljor Stadium, with participants from all six districts. The SKM's Executive President, Kunga Nima Lepcha, addressed the participants of the rally, highlighting that it was a tribute to India's victory over terrorism and a symbolic gesture of unity. Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya described the golden jubilee as a tribute to the courage of the people, the wisdom of leaders, and the enduring partnership between Sikkim and the Indian nation.
On this occasion, the Information and Public Relations Department released a magazine titled 'Sikkim Today – Festivals of Sikkim', and the Tourism Department launched the 'Visit Sikkim' mobile app.
Meanwhile, amidst the celebrations, the National Conference (NC) has used the occasion to renew its appeal for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. NC chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq responded to PM Modi's message to Sikkim by urging the Prime Minister to grant Jammu & Kashmir its rightful place by restoring its statehood. Sadiq emphasized that their aspirations must be respected and promises fulfilled. The NC’s renewed demand comes after a period of silence following the Pahalgam terror attack, during which Chief Minister Omar Abdullah refrained from raising political demands. The party has been consistently advocating for the restoration of statehood since Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into the Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh on August 5, 2019, when Article 370 was nullified.
