GANGTOK, : The BJP Sikkim has expressed
deep concern over the rising suicide cases in Sikkim, calling it a crisis that
demands urgent intervention.
According to the latest
National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, Sikkim has the highest suicide rate
per one lakh population in the country. The recent trend is even more
disturbing, with nearly 17 cases reported in a single weekin a State with just
6.5 lakh people, the BJP said.
BJP Sikkim’s media in-charge NirenBhandari
attributed the crisis to a combination of socio-economic and governance
failures. “The unchecked rise in drug abuse has led to mental health
deterioration, while the shrinking job market and lack of sustainable economic
opportunities have left many, especially the youth, feeling hopeless about
their future,” he said.
Bhandari also pointed to favouritism
and nepotism replacing merit-based opportunities, depriving deserving
individuals and further deepening frustration and despair. “The erosion of
ethical and value-based education has made young minds vulnerable, unable to
cope with life’s pressures, leading them towards extreme steps,” he added.
To address this crisis, BJP
Sikkim has demanded immediate establishment of a dedicated mental health
department, increased funding for mental health initiatives, tackling drug
abuse with stringent measures and creating more economic opportunities among
others.
“The rising suicide cases in
Sikkim are a wake-up call. If urgent steps are not taken, the crisis will
escalate further, costing more young lives. BJP Sikkim urges the state
government, civil society organizations, and citizens to unite in addressing
this issue. It is time for action, not apathy,” Bhandari stated.
