Sikkim: From Autocracy to Half-Democracy | Untold Narrative of Sikkim Merger | Nar Bahadur Khatiwada as narrated to Satyadeep S. Chhetri

• Authors: Nar Bahadur Khatiwada & Satyadeep S. Chhetri
• Publisher: Bee Books
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 9391618294
• ISBN-13: 978-9391618292
• Format: Hardcover
• Page Count: 288 pages

About the Book

Sikkim: From Autocracy to Half-Democracy sheds light on the historical journey of Sikkim, from its autocratic rule to its eventual merger with India in 1975, which significantly reshaped the political map of India. This book, written by Nar Bahadur Khatiwada, a key grassroots organizer during the Sikkimese revolution, offers a unique, firsthand perspective of the events that led to this crucial change. Alongside Satyadeep S. Chhetri, the authors bring a fresh narrative, focusing on the voices from the ground—the people’s struggles for democracy and their experience of the merger.

The book challenges the mainstream narratives that have often ignored the local voices in favor of political narratives shaped by journalists, bureaucrats, and officers. With a focus on the events of 1972, the book uncovers previously overlooked stories of the people’s struggle and examines the consequences of the merger, which continues to have lingering effects in Sikkim's political landscape.

Key Features

• Firsthand Account: The book offers a personal and authentic perspective from Nar Bahadur Khatiwada, who was deeply involved in the revolution and played a crucial role as the adopted son of Kazi Lhendup Dorji Khangsarpa, the leader of the movement.
• Political Insight: It delves into the political dynamics of Sikkim from 1972 to 1975, offering a critical examination of the merger and the implications it had for the region.
• People’s Struggle: The book brings forward the voices of the common people, shedding light on their struggles and their yearning for democracy, which is often left out in historical narratives.
• Challenging Historical Narratives: It challenges the mainstream historical accounts, offering new insights into the events that led to Sikkim becoming India’s 22nd state, while also highlighting the unresolved issues that still affect the region today.
• Modern-Day Relevance: The book continues to resonate with readers even after 48 years, reflecting on Sikkim’s ongoing political complexities, which some view as a ‘Half-Democracy’.

Purpose

This book aims to bring forth a fresh perspective on the merger of Sikkim, making it accessible to readers who are interested in regional history, political transformations, and the people’s struggle for democracy. It offers an invaluable addition to the historical understanding of India’s political evolution in the 20th century.