Sikkim

Ever since India became independent, the people of Sikkim wanted that their state should accede to the Indian Union so that they can join the mainstream of the Indian life. But their aspirations remained unfulfilled till April 1975. In 1950, the India-Sikkim Treaty was signed whereby the Sikkim continued to be the protectorate of India but in internal affairs Sikkim enjoyed autonomy. Taking advantage of this, the Chogyal not only continued his autocratic rule but also aspired to become an independent monarch. The Sikkimese had to wage a long and incessant struggle to frustrate the designs of the Chogyal.
Prof. Rao have tried to highlight not only the struggle of the people of Sikkim for democratization of their administration and closer political association with India but also the internationals intrigues to embarrass India by siding with the feudal regime. The author has described the long and peaceful struggle of the Sikkimese people and the awakening of their political consciousness culminating in the making of modern Sikkim, the 22nd State off India. The book is full of political and historical facts which are amply supported by a detailed list of Appendices containing all the treaties which the erstwhile Government of Sikkim had with not only India but with Tibet and China as well. Dr. Rao’s book is a historical document which will interest student of contemporary history, politics and constitution.