In a significant development for urban local governance in Sikkim, the Gangtok Municipal Corporation now has a women-majority council, with 12 women among its 20 elected councillors. This marks the first time that both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor positions are held by women. The Fourth Council Formation and oath-taking ceremony took place at the Gangtok Municipal Corporation Conference Hall in Deorali.
All 20 elected councillors were sworn in by Municipal Returning Officer Tushar G. Nikhare in the presence of government officials and dignitaries. Notably, women leaders were unanimously elected to the top two positions in the municipal body. Tshering Palden Bhutia from Ward No. 9 was elected as the new Mayor, while Sara Lama from Ward No. 12 became the Deputy Mayor.
The new composition of the council is seen as a significant milestone in Sikkim’s municipal administration, showcasing increased women’s participation in both representation and leadership roles. With women holding the majority of seats, the Gangtok Municipal Corporation sets an example of evolving political dynamics at the grassroots level in the Himalayan state.
Mayor Tshering Palden Bhutia expressed gratitude for the trust shown by the party leadership in women representatives. She emphasized the council’s strong belief in women’s leadership, with their representation now at around 50 percent. Bhutia also highlighted her prior experience in municipal administration, having been politically active since 2021 and previously serving as Deputy Mayor.
Stressing a results-oriented approach, Mayor Bhutia emphasized prioritizing action over rhetoric during her tenure, aiming to let her work speak for itself.
