GANGTOK:31st Oct: For 45 agonizing years, the sacred throne of the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorjee, at Rumtek Monastery has remained vacant following the demise of the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorjee, on November 5, 1981.
Generations of devotees across the globe and the people of Sikkim have carried this aching void in their hearts. Hundreds of elders who dedicated their lives to advocating and struggling for His Holiness’s return have passed away without seeing their prayers fulfilled.
The current Sikkim Government came to power on a solemn pledge to bring His Holiness back to his rightful seat at Rumtek. Couple of years ago, with great public fanfare, the government issued an official notification allocating approximately ₹1.50 Crore approx to send a high-level delegation to facilitate his return. Yet, to this day, the people remain in the dark about what became of that initiative or where those resources went.
Since departing India on a temporary visa in May 2017, His Holiness had not set foot in the Indian subcontinent, sparking endless rumors and doubts about his return. However, His Holiness arrived in neighboring Bhutan on October 29, 2026, for a 10-day visit to lead prayers and grant public audiences.
His presence right at our doorstep presents a crucial, fleeting window of opportunity that we simply cannot afford to lose.
We issue an urgent appeal—and a strong reminder—to the Sikkim Government:
- Act Immediately: Capitalize on His Holiness’s presence in Bhutan and immediately initiate formal, high-level diplomatic talks with His Holiness and relevant authorities to expedite his return to Rumtek Monastery before this short visit ends.
- Honor Your Sacred Promise: The government must fulfill its explicit election promise to the people of Sikkim and global devotees. A broken promise on a matter of such profound spiritual and cultural heritage will not be forgotten.
The window of time is rapidly closing. We urge the Sikkim Government to treat this matter with the utmost priority and finally bring His Holiness home to Rumtek,’communique by Sangay Gyatso Bhutia General Secretary (SIBLAC) Sikkim Bhutia Lepcha Apex committee
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