The recent Assembly elections in Sikkim saw the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) emerge victorious with a stunning 31 out of 32 seats. This victory marks the second consecutive defeat for the once-dominant Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF). Despite the SKM and the BJP contesting separately, SKM chief Prem Singh Tamang stated that his party is still a part of the BJP-led NDA. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Tamang on Twitter and expressed his desire to work together for the progress of Sikkim. Tamang responded with a commitment to continue development efforts and gratitude for Modi's support. The lone SDF candidate to win was Tenzing Norbu Lamtha, while Tamang's wife, Krishna Kumari Rai, also secured a seat.
Sikkim Krantikari Morcha: A Political Upheaval in the Land of Mountains
The recent assembly elections in Sikkim have witnessed a seismic shift in the political landscape, with the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) securing an overwhelming victory. This triumph marks a significant departure from the previous dominance of the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF).
Background of the SKM
The SKM was formed in 2013 by Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), a former SDF leader. Golay resigned from the SDF in 2013, citing differences with the party leadership. The SKM quickly gained popularity among the Sikkimese people, particularly in rural areas.
2023 Assembly Elections
In the 2023 assembly elections, the SKM contested the polls separately from its former ally, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Despite this separation, SKM chief Golay expressed the party's continued support for the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
The SKM's campaign focused on promises of socio-economic development, transparency, and corruption-free governance. The party's commitment to these issues resonated with the electorate, leading to a stunning victory.
SKM's Consecutive Victory
The SKM's victory in 2023 marks the second consecutive defeat for the SDF. In the 2019 assembly elections, the SKM had secured 17 out of 32 seats, while the SDF had won 15. This recent landslide win further solidifies SKM's position as the dominant political force in Sikkim.
Prime Minister Modi's Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Golay on the SKM's victory. In a tweet, Modi expressed his desire to work together with the SKM for the progress of Sikkim. Golay, in response, expressed his gratitude for Modi's support and pledged to continue development efforts in the state.
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