Sikkim bypoll: SDF moves Election Commission seeking deferment

The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), which is the principal opposition party in Sikkim requested the Election Commission of India on Friday to defer the Poklok-Kamrang assembly bypoll by 4 weeks. The ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) has fielded Chief Minister PS Golay as their candidate from this constituency. Besides this seat, Gangtok and Martam-Rumtek will also go to polls on October 21. SDF spokesperson and former Lok Sabha Member of Parliament (MP) Prem Das Rai submitted a representation to the Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora and Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra alleging poll-related violence.  

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'Created an atmosphere of fear'

Rai stated that the Sikkim CM was desperately trying to win the election by inciting violence against SDF leaders. He accused the SDF of many electoral offences including an attack on the convoy of SDF president and former CM Pawan Chamling on October 10. Moreover, the former Lok Sabha MP expressed apprehension about the level playing field in the election.  

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He observed, “Though the police was aware of the election rally that was scheduled to take place, they failed to make adequate arrangements for security. All these actions by the SKM have created an atmosphere of fear and as a result the SDF leaders, volunteers, and supporters have not been able to campaign in an effective manner.” Rai added, “If the elections cannot be deferred, the Election Commission should intervene and issue directions to the local authorities and police officials to ensure free, fair and peaceful elections.” 

Read: Sikkim: SDF Announces Three Candidates For Upcoming October By-polls

Bhaichung Bhutia to contest bypoll

In September, the ECI had announced the dates of Assembly elections in Maharashtra and Haryana alongside bypolls in several states such as Sikkim. For the three Assembly by-elections in Sikkim, BJP has formed an alliance with SKM. Former ace footballer Bhaichung Bhutia is also in the poll fray from Gangtok as a candidate of the Hamro Sikkim Party (HSP). The Poklok-Kamrang bypoll assumes significance as Golay is currently not an elected member of the legislature. The results will be announced on October 24.  

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