Bhutan once had a small neighbor—Sikkim—an independent Buddhist kingdom also ruled by a monarchy. But over time, a large influx of ethnic Nepalis shifted the demographic balance, making the native Sikkimese a minority. Eventually, the kingdom collapsed and was annexed by India.

Sikkim’s fate sparked deep concern in Bhutan. In its early years, Bhutan welcomed Nepali immigrants to aid in developing and settling the southern region. However, as the Nepali population grew to comprise 28% of the total, tensions rose. Fueled by nationalism and fears of losing sovereignty, the Bhutanese government introduced the “One Nation, One People” policy in 1989.

This policy mandated that all ethnic groups in Bhutan adopt the language, dress, cultural norms, and values of the dominant Drukpa (Ngalop) people to forge a unified national identity. Alongside the 1988 census, the government used these measures to reduce the influence of the southern Nepali communities.

In 1990, protests erupted among the southern minority groups, prompting a severe government crackdown. From that point onward, all citizens had to secure a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to access education, scholarships, public employment and promotions, medical aid, business permits, travel documents, land ownership, and the right to sell cash crops. Individuals who had taken part in protests—or who were relatives of refugees—were denied the NOC. Without this certificate, it became nearly impossible to survive.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, cast out fear and move the hearts of Bhutan’s leaders to nurture the cultural growth of all ethnic groups. May they embrace policies grounded in respect and inclusion that build unity rather than division. We pray that the No Objection Certificate will not be used as a means to exclude minorities. Merciful Lord, open a path for those denied citizenship and basic rights—grant them grace and new opportunities. Give Bhutan’s government wisdom and mercy to reform citizenship laws or implement flexible measures that address the needs of marginalized communities. When census forms require declarations of faith, we ask You to intervene and prevent any efforts to erase certain groups from the records. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.