The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), which is currently in power in Sikkim, has hailed the reported decision of former Indian football captain Bhaichung Bhutia to join politics.
Reacting to media report that Bhaichung is all set to enter politics, senior SDF leader and State Forest minister Tshering Wangdi Lepcha on Friday said, “As a citizen of Sikkim I welcome him and his new party. I hope he has intentions for the betterment of Sikkimese population and plans on bringing a positive transformation rather than mere political rivalry of Mamta Banerjee,” posted Tshering Wangdi.
“Bhaichung is Sikkim’s son and his sportsmanship has brought laurels to Sikkim and the nation. We all are extremely proud of him. My only appeal to the people of Sikkim is to be vigilant about this new development and keep a keen eye on this movement which could also be a strategy to hamper Sikkim’s political scene,” added the minister.
When contacted on Saturday, the Forest minister confirmed his social media post regarding Bhaichung. We welcome Bhaichung in Sikkim’s politics but it must be a local or regional party, he said.
“We don’t want the roots of other political parties to extend into our peaceful State. We want the contest to be within Sikkim amongst Sikkimese,” said Tshering Wangdi.
As an individual, Tshering Wangdi requested the general public to be cautious prior extending support to Bhaichung and also to verify his political background.
Sikkim Express had reported on January 28 that Bhaichung is likely to quit Bengal political field soon and talks have been floating that the Tinkitam-born could get politically involved in his home State.
Bhaichung had previously contested from Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat in 2014 and Siliguri Assembly constituency in 2016 from the ruling TMC party of West Bengal.