Soreng, November 16 (IPR): The Chief Minister of Sikkim, Mr Prem Singh Tamang and Chief Justice, High Court of Sikkim, Mr Justice Biswanath Somadder, jointly laid the foundation stone for the new District Court complex at the Civil Judge-cum-Judicial Magistrate Court premises in Soreng, today.
The ceremony was held in the august presence of Judge, High Court of Sikkim, Mr Justice Bhaskar Raj Pradhan, Speaker (Sikkim Legislative Assembly), Mr MN Sherpa and Minister for Labour, Buildings and Housing Departments, Mr Bhim Hang Limboo.
The welcome address was delivered by District and Sessions Judge, Soreng Dr. Jwala D. Thapa.
In his address, the Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang described the occasion as a momentous event for the people of Soreng district. He then extended his gratitude to the Chief Justice Mr Justice Biswanath Somadder for his guidance in strengthening the judiciary in Sikkim. Highlighting the significance of the new complex, he stated that the residents from remote areas would no longer need to travel long distances in search of justice. Calling the ceremony a significant milestone, the Chief Minister expressed his pride in being part of the event and noted that it evoked a deep sense of belonging, particularly because he himself hails from Soreng.
Further, he reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that justice remains accessible to all, irrespective of socio-economic background.
The Chief Justice, High Court of Sikkim, Mr Justice Biswanath Somadder underscored the importance of the three pillars of the Constitution while addressing the gathering. He then mentioned the India Justice Report (IJR) prepared by the Tata Trusts, noting with pride that Sikkim continues to lead among India's small states in justice delivery system.
Speaking about the state’s judicial system, he commended the strong support and cooperation extended by the Sikkim government. He further acknowledged the progress made in judicial infrastructure across the state and expressed gratitude to the government and all other stakeholders involved in strengthening the system.
Concluding his address, Mr Justice Biswanath Somadder stressed the need to ensure that marginalised communities have equal access to justice, emphasising the judiciary's commitment.
A comprehensive technical report on the upcoming District Court complex in Soreng was presented by the Principal Chief Engineer-cum-Secretary (Buildings & Housing Department, GoS), Ms Asha Gurung. She also informed that the infrastructure will be developed on 2.6 acres of land along with all necessary facilities planned within the project.
The new District Court complex, Soreng, will span 2.6 acres and cover 1,13,952 square foot of built up area. The facilities will include the District Court building, an annexe block, the existing CJM court complex, the proposed District & Sessions Judge's bungalow, the existing bungalow, as well as proposed residential quarters for the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) and Judicial Magistrate (JM).
Also present at the ceremony were Madam Madhumati Somadder, MLA (Soreng-Chakung) Mr Aditya Golay, MLA (Salghari-Zoom) Mr Madan Cintury, Former Judges, High Court of Sikkim, Mr Justice A.P. Subba and Mr Justice Sonam Phintso Wangdi, Presidents and members of BAR Association, Zilla Adhakshya (Soreng), Up-Adhakshya (Soreng), Zilla Panchayats, Panchayats, Chairpersons, Advisors, Secretaries, DC (Soreng), SP (Soreng), OSDs, ADCs, SDMs, BDOs, Head of Departments, Head of Offices, officers, officials and students.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by the Chief Judical Magistrate-cum-Sr. Civil Judge, Soreng, Mrs Rohini Rai and ended with the rendition of the National Anthem.
The Program was conducted by Civil Judge-cum-Judicial Magistrate, Soreng Mr. Sayshay Hang Subba (Limboo).