Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has alleged that the opposition played a key role in provoking Samson Tamang into delivering a hate speech against the Khas community. His remarks came during an assembly session on February 21, where he criticized opposition leaders for stirring controversy without any genuine issues to address.
The controversy erupted after a video of Samson Tamang making inflammatory remarks against the Khas community surfaced online. The comments sparked widespread outrage, leading to legal action against him. However, CM Tamang asserted that the opposition deliberately manipulated the situation to create unrest in the state.
Samson Tamang’s Arrest After Nationwide Manhunt
Samson Tamang was arrested in Bodhgaya, Bihar, on February 19, following an extensive 13-day manhunt. His arrest was carried out in a joint operation between Sikkim Police and Bihar Police. Tamang was accused of inciting communal hatred, which led to significant unrest in Sikkim.
After his arrest, Tamang made claims that an opposition leader had influenced his speech, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation. His allegations suggest that political motivations may have been at play in the hate speech controversy.
CM Tamang’s Accusations Against the Opposition
During the assembly session, CM Prem Singh Tamang directly blamed the opposition for orchestrating the controversy. He stated that opposition leaders, lacking genuine issues to raise, deliberately provoked Samson Tamang into making the inflammatory statements.
“The opposition is playing a dangerous game by inciting individuals to create social unrest. They have no real issues to discuss, so they are resorting to such manipulative tactics,” the CM said.
He further assured the people of Sikkim that his government is committed to maintaining communal harmony and will take strict action against anyone attempting to create divisions within society.
Details of the Police Operation Leading to Tamang’s Arrest
The search for Samson Tamang involved a highly coordinated police operation led by SDPO Tashi Chopel Bhutia. The investigation team also included Investigating Officer PI DP Limboo, PI Naresh Chhetri, SI Taman R. Gurung, and other personnel.
Tamang was finally tracked down in Bodhgaya, where he had been hiding after fleeing from Sikkim. The police team ensured his safe return to Sikkim, where he is now facing legal proceedings.
Political Reactions and Public Response
The controversy surrounding Samson Tamang’s speech has ignited strong political reactions across Sikkim. While the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) government has condemned the remarks and blamed the opposition, the opposition parties have denied any involvement, instead accusing the government of suppressing dissent.
Public opinion remains divided, with some supporting the CM’s claim that the opposition is fueling unrest, while others argue that the government is using the issue for political gains ahead of elections.
Legal Proceedings and Future Implications
Samson Tamang is now under legal custody, and the case is being investigated further to determine the full extent of political involvement. Authorities have also issued warnings against spreading communal hatred, emphasizing that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty of inciting violence.
The incident has highlighted the sensitive nature of communal relations in Sikkim and the role of political influence in shaping public discourse. With elections approaching, the case is likely to remain a major point of contention between the ruling party and the opposition.
The controversy surrounding Samson Tamang’s hate speech has taken a political turn, with CM Prem Singh Tamang accusing the opposition of inciting the remarks. His arrest after a nationwide manhunt underscores the severity of the issue, as authorities continue to investigate potential political influences.
As legal proceedings unfold, the case will be closely watched by political analysts and the public alike, shaping the political landscape of Sikkim in the coming months.
