Sikkim BJP Seeks Apology Over State's Exclusion from India Map by National Daily

BJP’s Sikkim Unit Condemns National Daily for Omitting State from India Map

In a development that has sparked significant controversy, the Sikkim unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has vehemently condemned a reputed national English daily for publishing a map of India that failed to include Sikkim. The incident occurred in the newspaper's May 13 edition, just days before the state is set to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its statehood on May 16, marking its formal incorporation into the Indian Union in 1975 as the 22nd state.

Terming the omission a “grave error” and “a blatant affront to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of India,” BJP leaders in the state expressed strong disapproval of what they see as both an editorial oversight and a disrespectful act. They further emphasized that Sikkim’s political and constitutional status as an Indian state is clearly protected under Article 371F of the Indian Constitution, which safeguards its unique identity and integration within the nation.

BJP officials have demanded an immediate public apology from the editorial board of the newspaper responsible for publishing the inaccurate map. Additionally, they are calling for a full and unambiguous correction of the erroneous content, ensuring that Sikkim is duly represented in all future publications. The party unit has also urged the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to step in and conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. They believe appropriate punitive measures should be taken against those responsible to prevent recurrence of such incidents that could harm the unity and sentiments of the people of any Indian state.

The BJP Sikkim unit stressed that the people of Sikkim would not accept being rendered invisible or disrespected, especially in official or public documents that symbolize national unity. "We will not tolerate such acts of negligence or disrespect," they said, while reiterating their commitment to safeguarding the honour, dignity, and rightful place of Sikkim in the Indian Union.

The controversy has taken on added emotional significance as it coincides with Sikkim’s preparations for its golden jubilee celebrations. The state, formerly an independent kingdom, became a part of India through a historic referendum and constitutional process in 1975. Since then, Sikkim has played an integral role in India's territorial, cultural, and strategic framework, particularly given its location along the sensitive India-China border.

This incident has reignited concerns in the state about representation and recognition within the broader Indian narrative. Many citizens and political leaders believe such oversights—whether intentional or inadvertent—can be deeply damaging to national unity and could undermine the confidence of smaller states in the federal structure of India.

As Sikkim approaches its 50th year of statehood, its citizens and political representatives are calling for greater care, respect, and accuracy in national communications and representations. They insist that national media and institutions must uphold the spirit of inclusivity and federal equality that India stands for, especially during moments of historical significance for any region or community.