PRESS RELEASE | Citizen Action Party – Sikkim | Gangtok, Sikkim | 17th April 2026
Gangtok: In a significant step towards amplifying the voices of the driving community, the Executive Council of the Drivers Council, Citizen Action Party – Sikkim, held an important meeting at the party headquarters in Gangtok. The meeting was chaired by Shri Binod Gurung, Vice President (In-Charge) Drivers Council, in the presence of Shri Asish Rai, President of the Council, District Presidents Shri Jonah Rai (Pakyong), Shri Santosh Rai (Namchi), and other executive members.
The meeting echoed a strong and unified concern over the worsening road conditions across the state, which have not only disrupted daily transport but have directly threatened the livelihood and dignity of thousands of drivers. The council emphasized that drivers who form the backbone of Sikkim’s connectivity and tourism economy are being pushed into hardship due to neglected infrastructure.
The council urgently appealed to the concerned authorities to take immediate, visible, and accountable measures to repair and maintain roads before the onset of the monsoon season, warning that any delay could result in severe consequences for both livelihoods and public safety.
A major highlight of the discussion was the growing distress among drivers over illegal and unregulated parking fee collections. Shri Asish Rai, in his address, strongly condemned such practices, stating that they have significantly reduced drivers’ already strained incomes. He called for strict enforcement against unauthorized collections and demanded that only duly verified individuals with valid identity cards be permitted to collect parking fees. He further pointed out that the absence of proper identification has led to frequent conflicts and humiliation of drivers, adversely affecting their social dignity.
Shri Rai also extended sincere appreciation to the Indian Army and the District Administrations of Mangan and Gangtok for their swift and commendable response in assisting drivers and stranded tourists during recent crises caused by landslides and heavy snowfall in higher regions. Their support, he noted, reflects the spirit of service and coordination that must be strengthened across all departments.
Shri Binod Gurung reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Citizen Action Party – Sikkim towards the welfare, rights, and dignity of drivers. He emphasized that the party stands firmly with the driving community and will continue to raise their concerns at every platform until meaningful and lasting solutions are achieved.
The council also resolved to further strengthen its organizational network at all levels to ensure that the voices of drivers from every corner of the state are heard, respected, and acted upon.
The meeting concluded with a clear message: the struggles of drivers cannot be ignored any longer, and timely action is not just necessary it is a responsibility.
Issued by:
Nima Ongchu Sherpa
Vice President, Drivers Council
Citizen Action Party – Sikkim
