Sikkim Seeks Ban on Mt Khangchendzonga Ascent

Sikkim Seeks Ban on Mt Khangchendzonga Ascent

Why in the News ?

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has written to Home Minister Amit Shah, objecting to the recent ascent of Mt Khangchendzonga from the Nepal side by a mountaineering team. He urged the Centre to diplomatically ensure the sacred peak is respected and not climbed.

Sacred Significance and Local Sentiment:

• Mt Khangchendzonga, the world’s third-highest peak, holds immense spiritual and cultural value for the people of Sikkim.
• It is considered a sacred entity by Sikkim’s indigenous communities and is deeply tied to their religious beliefs and traditions.
• Climbing the mountain is seen as a violation of customary and religious norms, especially from the Indian side where such ascents are prohibited out of respect.

Controversial Ascent and Government Response

• On May 18, a five-member team from the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (IMAS) scaled the peak from the Nepali side.
• The Sikkim CM condemned the act as disrespectful to local sentiments and traditions.
• He labelled the expedition a breach of legal and religious boundaries, highlighting the emotional hurt caused to the Sikkimese people.

Diplomatic Appeal and Future Safeguards

• CM Tamang urged the Union Government to take the issue seriously and prevent future occurrences.
• In a letter to Home Minister Amit Shah, he called for diplomatic dialogue with Nepal to ensure the mountain’s sanctity is preserved.
• He also requested that the mountain be declared off-limits for any kind of expedition in the future, from both Indian and foreign routes.