Pakyong, August 12, 2025: In a significant step towards strengthening judicial infrastructure and improving access to justice in Sikkim, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and Chief Justice of the High Court of Sikkim Justice Biswanath Somadder jointly laid the foundation stone for the upcoming District Court Complex at Pakyong on Tuesday.
The landmark project is expected to enhance judicial services in the district and provide a modern, accessible, and efficient environment for litigants, advocates, and judicial officers.
The foundation stone laying ceremony was attended by Justice Bhaskar Raj Pradhan of the High Court of Sikkim, Ministers Raju Basnet, Bhim Hang Limboo, and Puran Kumar Gurung, MLA Pamin Lepcha, senior members of the judiciary, officials from the Buildings and Housing Department, and representatives of the Bar Association of Sikkim.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Tamang reiterated the state government's commitment to ensuring accessible and timely justice for all citizens, particularly those living in remote and rural areas. He emphasized that the development of judicial infrastructure remains a key priority of the government and highlighted several initiatives undertaken to strengthen the legal and justice delivery system in the state.
The Chief Minister also referred to recent judicial and legal reforms at the national level, including the implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), which have replaced colonial-era criminal laws. He said these reforms are aimed at modernizing India's justice system and making it more citizen-centric.
Tamang further praised the establishment of the National Law University in Sikkim and the implementation of the Nari Adalat programme, which promotes community-based and women-led dispute resolution mechanisms in rural and semi-urban areas.
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Chief Justice Somadder highlighted the importance of modern and well-equipped court infrastructure in ensuring effective justice delivery. He appreciated the continued support extended by the state government in strengthening judicial facilities and enhancing access to legal services.
According to the Buildings and Housing Department, the new court complex will be developed on a 2.27-hectare site and will comprise five major structures, including the main court building, an annexe block, and official residences for the District & Sessions Judge, Medical Magistrate, and Judicial Magistrate.
Once completed, the Pakyong District Court Complex is expected to serve as a modern centre for justice administration, promoting efficiency, accessibility, and public confidence in the judiciary. Officials said the project will play a crucial role in ensuring that legal services are delivered more effectively while reinforcing the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law in Sikkim.
