Gangtok, Sikkim: A recent Indian Army expedition to Mount Khangchen Dzongna has ignited a significant controversy in Sikkim. The expedition has drawn sharp criticism from Indigenous communities and raised questions about adherence to cultural and legal norms.
Sacred Significance of Mount Khangchen Dzongna
Mount Khangchen Dzongna, also known as Kangchenjunga, is the third-highest peak globally at 8,586 meters. For the Indigenous Bhutia and Lepcha communities of Sikkim, the mountain is more than a geographical landmark; it is revered as the “Guardian Deity” and holds profound spiritual significance. Traditionally, climbers have respected local customs by refraining from summiting the peak, stopping short to honor its sanctity.
Mount Khangchen Dzongna’s sacred status is legally recognized. Under the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, expeditions to the peak are prohibited. The Sikkim government reaffirmed this ban in 2001, emphasizing the need to protect the mountain’s sanctity and the sentiments of local communities.
The Controversial Expedition
Despite these protections, a joint Indo-Nepal Army expedition, led by Colonel Sarfaraz Singh of the Indian Army, was flagged off by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on April 3, 2025. The team comprises 12 Indian Army mountaineers and six from the Nepali Army. The expedition aims to scale Mount Khangchen Dzongna, a move met with immediate backlash from local organizations.
Community Outrage and Environmental Concerns
The Sikkim Bhutia Lepcha Apex Committee (SIBLAC) has expressed deep concern over the expedition, citing violations of religious sentiments and legal statutes. Tseten Tashi Bhutia, SIBLAC’s convenor, emphasized that the mountain is a living symbol of spiritual identity for Indigenous communities. He warned that such activities could provoke natural calamities, referencing past disasters like the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) that caused significant destruction in Sikkim.
Calls for Government Intervention
SIBLAC has formally appealed to the Governor of Sikkim and the state’s Ecclesiastical Department, seeking immediate intervention to halt the expedition. The organization urges the state government to uphold existing laws and prevent activities that disrespect the cultural and spiritual values of the local communities.
Balancing National Interests and Cultural Sensitivities
While the Indian Army’s expedition is part of broader initiatives to showcase national strength and resilience, the controversy underscores the need to balance such endeavors with respect for indigenous cultures and legal frameworks. The situation calls for a nuanced approach that honors the spiritual beliefs of local communities while considering national objectives.
Conclusion
The events surrounding the Mount Khangchen Dzongna expedition highlight the complexities of navigating national interests in regions with deep-rooted cultural and spiritual significance. As discussions continue, it remains imperative for all stakeholders to engage in dialogue that respects the sanctity of sacred sites and the nation’s aspirations.
