Gangtok :24 April: A coordination meeting,of Citizen Action Party – Women’s Council was held at the party headquarters,on Thursday, chaired by Central Executive Committee Vice President cum Advisor Women Council, Smt Sanju Rai. It had the presence of Vice President (Incharge) Women Council, Smt. Sumati Chettri and Council President Smt. Bina Sharma and eminent women leaders of the party.
Subsequently, discussion among the women leaders on the “Nari Shakti Vandan Act 2026 ,took place.” The party is extensively engaging itself with various women leaders, organisations and individuals to ensure a more robust stand to be taken in the larger interest of all women across the country.
It was emphasized that women should not be limited to only 33 % reservation, and that deeper reflection is necessary to achieve equal rights and justice. Considering the current situation of the state, the party clearly stated that even though 11 women representatives may reach the legislative assembly under the 33 percent reservation, it is essential to develop capable leadership to ensure the rights of women, who make up 50 percent of the population “owners of half the sky and half the earth.”
There was also in-depth discussion on the recent judgments from the Gauhati High Court and the High Court of Sikkim.
Marking the day as a significant occasion, Smt. Sanju Rai, in her address, expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of violence and crimes against women in the state. She conveyed confidence that firm and effective decisions would be taken in the upcoming elections to ensure overall development, enhance women’s safety, and curb corruption.
She further stated that the Citizen Action Party–Sikkim has consistently supported women’s participation in decision-making processes and ensured their representation across all party councils. Reflecting on her own journey, she shared that she had contested elections at the grassroots level against male counterparts and later in assembly elections, emphasizing that despite challenges, Sikkimese women must step forward and actively engage in decision-making and policy formulation.
She also noted with appreciation that women in Sikkim are increasingly participating across various sectors, demonstrating strong determination and capability. Drawing inspiration from prominent women figures such as Smt. Dil Kumari Bhandari, Smt. Kipu Lepcha, Police Officer Smt. Sarda Rani, and freedom fighter Smt. Helen Lepcha, she encouraged continued progress and leadership among women in the state.
Earlier, progress reports of Gangtok District and other Distts were presented respectively. District-level Women Council executive committees, for Gangtok and Pakyong district were nominated by the Council.
The meeting was addressed by Party Leaders Smt. Sumati Chettri, Shri Bhushan Adhikari, Shri Prashant Babu Chhetri, Smt. Songmit Lepcha, Smt. Bina Sharma and Ms. Tashi Lhamu Bhutia. There was notable participation of women leaders, according to information from Arpana Rai,General Secretary,Women’s Council ,Citizen Action Party–Sikkim .
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