Sikkim-Darjeeling merger debate: Identity and population at stake
Historically, Darjeeling was once part of Sikkim, but centuries of political and cultural separation have led to distinct identities.
LOCAL
The proposed merger of Sikkim and Darjeeling has ignited heated discussions across political and social circles, with concerns centering on the future of identity, population balance, and economic parity between the two regions.
According to 2011 census data, Sikkim had a population of 6,10,577, compared to Darjeeling’s significantly larger population of 18,46,823. This threefold difference raises fears that Sikkim’s unique identity could be overshadowed. The Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) populations in Darjeeling also far outnumber those in Sikkim, which could lead to unequal competition for resources.
Population projections show that Sikkim’s population is expected to reach 7.37 lakh by 2031, while Darjeeling’s is projected to hit 22 lakh. This steady population growth in Darjeeling, combined with its higher fertility rate of 2.1 compared to Sikkim’s 1.1, could further tip the demographic balance.
Historically, Darjeeling was once part of Sikkim, but centuries of political and cultural separation have led to distinct identities. For Sikkim’s people, the prospect of losing statehood and becoming a district within a merged entity is unsettling. There are fears that the erosion of Article 371F, which grants Sikkim special protections, would further weaken Sikkim’s indigenous Bhutia-Lepcha communities.
Darjeeling’s population density of 586 people per sq km dwarfs Sikkim’s 86 per sq km. A merger could potentially lead to large-scale migration from Darjeeling to Sikkim, driving urban overcrowding and placing a strain on Sikkim’s limited resources and infrastructure.
Economically, Sikkim has a significant advantage, with a per capita income of ₹1,94,624 compared to Darjeeling’s ₹87,695 (2013-14 data). Sikkim has benefited from central government investments and better infrastructure, while Darjeeling has faced historical neglect under West Bengal’s administration. A merger could widen economic gaps, as Darjeeling’s larger population might absorb more government funds and job opportunities.
Sikkim’s political power would likely diminish in a merged state. Darjeeling’s population dominance means more assembly seats, panchayat wards, and government offices would be centered in Darjeeling. Additionally, the abolition of Article 371F could eliminate reserved seats for Sikkim’s indigenous communities, altering the region’s political dynamics.
The proposed Sikkim-Darjeeling merger presents significant challenges. While it may bring development opportunities for Darjeeling, it risks eroding Sikkim’s unique identity and political autonomy. Any decision should be made with a deep understanding of the regions’ historical, cultural, and demographic differences, ensuring that both regions' aspirations are respected.
( The views expressed in this article are the opinion of S.D. Tshering, Retd Director General, DESM&E. )