Darjeeling Lok Sabha MP and newly appointed Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Sikkim State In-Charge Raju Bista began his organisational responsibilities in the state with a meeting with BJP workers in Singtam on October 5, 2026.
Addressing party workers, Bista said his immediate priority would be to listen to the grassroots organisation, understand local concerns and work closely with the state leadership and party workers. He described Sikkim as a state with a distinct cultural identity, diverse population, sensitive ecology and significant development potential.
A key part of his address was his clarification on Article 371F of the Constitution, which provides special constitutional provisions for Sikkim. Bista said the BJP would respect and uphold the provision and stressed that it would remain committed to protecting Sikkim’s constitutional safeguards.
Bista also addressed the politically sensitive issue of the relationship between Sikkim and Darjeeling. While acknowledging their shared history and cultural connections, he said the two regions have different political futures. He emphasised that the two sides could support one another while respecting each other’s political space. Recent reports noted that his remarks came amid renewed discussion in parts of Darjeeling and Kalimpong regarding a possible merger with Sikkim.
On the organisational front, Bista said the BJP’s immediate focus would be on strengthening the party structure from the booth level upwards. He also highlighted continued public engagement through the Seva Setu Abhiyan as part of the party’s outreach efforts.
The BJP leader further said he would travel across Sikkim to meet party workers, understand local issues and coordinate with the state leadership. He stressed that strengthening the organisation was important not only from the party’s perspective but also for addressing issues concerning the people of Sikkim.
Bista also pointed to development in areas such as connectivity, infrastructure, tourism, agriculture, healthcare and education under the Narendra Modi-led government, while highlighting Sikkim’s potential and unique character.
The meeting comes shortly after Bista’s appointment as the BJP’s Sikkim State In-Charge. The state BJP leadership had earlier said his appointment would bring renewed organisational momentum to the party in Sikkim.
Bista said he would work closely with the entire state organisation under the leadership of BJP National President Nitin Nabin, with an emphasis on organisational strengthening and public service.
