The Association of Old Settlers of Sikkim
Gangtok,Sikkim


Press Release
10.Aug 2010


The Association of Old Settlers of Sikkim is extremely grateful to Hon’ble Dr Pawan Chamling, Chief Minister of Sikkim for having announced “ residential status” for all those left out people who have been residing in the State prior to its merger with the Union thereby enabling them to all benefits as enjoyed by their Sikkim Subject brethren.

The generous announcement has come after great efforts and deliberations on his part in forming a public opinion and convincing all concerned that all old settlers are an integral part of the Sikkimese Society and deserve equal protection and opportunities.

Dr Chamling has been working relentlessly in this direction for years and more particularly after insertion of section 26AAA in Section 10 of the Income tax Act 1961 which has led to grievances of having been left out, from various sections of the society. Taking due cognizance of this fact his party resolved in the SDF manifesto 2009.. “ While protecting this achievement of securing exemption from the Central Income tax, our Government has not lost sight of the genuine demands of the old business community, old residents and old Government employees-both State and Central. Our Government is seized of the problem and we are going to strongly plead for equal rights..”

He further went on to bring about Resolution no 4 in SDF foundation day MahaAdhivesan at Rangpo on 4 March 2009 reiterating the stand of the popular Government in strong support of the Left Out Categories of the people.

Duly appreciating one and all representations made by various bodies/ associations including Association of Old settlers of Sikkim the Hon’ble Chief Minister brought about and passed a resolution in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly to this effect to be taken up with the concerned ministries of Government of India.

In so far as the Association of Old Settlers is concerned, we have received continuous support and guidance from the Hon’ble Chief Minister who inspired us to prepare a survey of old settlers of Sikkim belonging to business community who are settled in Sikkim prior to merger. A Survey of Old settlers of Sikkim belonging to the business community soliciting socio economic development has accordingly been prepared and submitted to the Government on 8th July 2009 for authentication and consideration for various privileges and opportunities as enjoyed by their Sikkimese brethren.

It is sincerely hoped that with this announcement all apprehensions of the Left Out people of Sikkim shall be put to rest as the same takes further shape in determining them and classifying them as a category for all welfare schemes.


S.K.Sarda
President
Association of Old Settlers of Sikkim
Gangtok