On Tuesday, the BJP candidate DT Lepcha is set to win the Rajya Sabha election in Sikkim uncontested, as no other candidate filed the nomination papers, according to the officials. Moreover, Lepcha would have anyway won the election, as the ruling party Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) is extending support to him. Also, the BJP and the SKM account together for 31 seats of the assembly’s total 32.
How BJP’s Lepcha can win uncontested for Sikkim Seat?
According to the sources from the assembly, the time allotted for the filing of nomination papers ended at 3 PM, and only Lepcha’s papers were received by the office of the Returning officer. It is also stated that the scrutiny of the nomination papers will take place on January 10.
The SKM and the BJP have worked together to build a strong alliance in Sikkim. The other opposition parties like the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) faced internal turmoil and weren’t able to put up a united front against the BJP, further limiting their chance of electing a competitive candidate. Moreover, the BJP state unit president DR Thapa and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang accompanied Lepcha when he filed his nomination papers to stand Rajya Sabha election. And, it is expected that Lepcha’s win could bring potential benefit to the party.
Lepcha’s Victory could bring potential benefits to BJP?
Lepcha was a minister in the previous SDF govt and held the portfolio of Buildings & Housing, and Transport. In the last election, the BJP did not win any seat, for which SKM came to power. But, when Lepcha along with nine MLAs switched to BJP, the BJP won the election with 12 seats out of 32.
However, Lepcha’s nomination to the Rajya Sabha election will help the BJP become a major player in the Himalayan state. It will enhance the alliance with SKM, improve the state’s presence in Rajya Sabha, expand the supporter base regionally, and counter the regional opposition.
Possible Consequences
BJP’s uncontested Rajya Sabha win in Sikkim sent ripples on both the state and national landscapes. Locally, it could solidify their dominance by strengthening their alliance and expanding their electoral base.
Moreover, it could come as an unfair tactic and tarnish the party’s pan-India appeal. To tackle this, balancing the regional ambitions, delivering promises, and addressing public concerns will determine whether the win becomes successful or a catalyst for future hurdles.
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