Sikkim Day: How Sikkim Became a Part of India
A glimpse into one of the most beautiful states of India.
- 16 May 1975: Sikkim became a part of India
- NSA Ajit Doval had played a prominent role in Sikkim’s merger with India.
- In 2003, China acknowledged Sikkim as a part of India.
- In 1642, Chogyal dynasty was established in Sikkim.
- Sikkim is the only state to have the status of a co-state in India.
- Sikkim is the least populous state in India.
- The third highest peak in the world, Kanchenjunga is in Sikkim.
- The only road to China, Nathula Pass is in Sikkim.
It was on 16 May 1975 that Sikkim, India’s least populous state officially became a part of India. It is for this cause that this day is celebrated as the Sikkim Day. Let us give you a glimpse into this beautiful state.
In 1642 came under the rule of the Chogyal dynasty. In 1890, under the rule of the British, it became a protectorate state. This meant that it came under the jurisdiction of the British. It acted as a buffer state between China and British India; of which Nepal and Bhutan were also a part.
In 1947, Sikkim became a part of India, as a result of which Sikkim’s foreign policy, security and communication came under India’s realm. Yet Sikkim retained its independence.
Sikkim’s Official Merge With India
Sikkim’s last monarch Palden Thondup Namgyal married an American, Hope Cook. It has been said that she took over the governance of Sikkim after her marriage. She was also accused of being a CIA agent.
In 1975, the people of Sikkim rebelled against the monarch which led to its official merger with India.
Many believe Indian agencies were involved in inciting violence in the state.
In 1975, that 1967 batch IPS officer Ajit Doval, who is also the present National Security Adviser went from Mizoram to Sikkim and handled the entire operation. Sikkim’s first chief minister Kazi Lhendup Dorjee was supporting India throughout this.
Sikkim was made a part of India after the 35th Constitutional Amendment and was made a co-state. China did not take very kindly to this and it was only in 2003, during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s tenure that China acknowledged Sikkim as part of India.
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