The Opposition Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) alleged gross violations of the Model Code of Conduct for an ongoing independent panchayat poll. It claimed that the Sikkim State Election Commission (SEC) failed to work independently.

“Despite being an autonomous body, it currently serves under the government terms and conditions,” it alleged.

He claimed the same while addressing a press conference at their office in Indira Bye pass road. It was attended by Spokesperson – Rikzimg Norbu and Bandana Bhattarai.

According to the Senior Vice President of the party and former Speaker – KN Rai, “a memorandum was submitted to the SEC, highlighting the flaws, but it failed to address the issues. A copy of the memorandum submitted to the Governor – Ganga Prasad.”

Although Ministers, MLAs, and Chairmen are touring villages to woo voters. But in some cases, they seem to work based on the interests of the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) Party, which proves the body is no more independent.

He further alleged that the ruling SKM declared that the elections will be independent, but their party karyakartas indulged in campaigns.

Rai questioned, “some candidates hold executive posts without resigning from their earlier posts, so how is it independent?”