Statehood of Sikkim
Context: Sikkim celebrated the 50th anniversary of its statehood, granted on May 16, 1975, with a unique 16-day "Butterthon" promoting butterfly tourism.
Important Pointers:
➤ Historical Background:
Sikkim was an Indian protectorate from 1950 to 1975, retaining internal autonomy while India handled its external affairs, defense, and communication.
It was ruled by a monarch — the Chogyal (Palden Thondup Namgyal was the last).
Popular demand grew in the 1970s for greater democratic rights and integration with India.
➤ How Statehood Happened:
1973: Political unrest led to protests against the monarchy and demands for democratic reforms.
Tripartite Agreement (May 8, 1973): Signed between the Chogyal, the Indian Government, and Sikkimese political parties; Provided for electoral reforms and the establishment of a responsible government.
36th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1975: Sikkim became the 22nd state of India; Inserted Article 371F was inserted into the Constitution to preserve Sikkim's distinct identity and existing laws.
April 10, 1975: The Sikkim Assembly passed a resolution seeking full integration with India.
April 14, 1975: A referendum was held — over 97% voted in favour of joining India.
May 16, 1975: Sikkim formally became a full-fledged State of the Indian Union.
➤ Constitutional Provisions:
Article 371F (Special Provisions for Sikkim) was introduced via the 36th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1975.
Key features:
Safeguards the existing laws and customs of Sikkim.
Maintains the composition of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly.
Recognizes the rights of the Sikkimese people and their pre-merger laws.
The President may specify which Central laws apply to Sikkim.
➤ Butterthon:
It is a 16-day butterfly-watching event launched to mark 50 years of Sikkim’s Statehood.
It is organised by the Butterfly Society of Sikkim-TPCF (Thamblyok Putali Charphemba Famiyap).
It is held from May 1 to May 16, 2025, across Sikkim’s forests and high-altitude meadows.