A delegation from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) met with Sikkim’s Chief Electoral Officer on December 5, demanding that the forthcoming Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls be carried out strictly under Article 371F. This constitutional provision secures Sikkim’s special status, which was established following its merger with India in 1975.
The meeting, led by BJP spokesperson Sangay Gyatso Bhutia and state secretary Sangay Pulger, focused on the methodologies for conducting the SIR, a process aimed at updating voter registration lists. Article 371F provides unique protections for Sikkim’s legislative and administrative framework, reinforcing the state’s identity.
BJP representatives conveyed to the Chief Electoral Officer that their request is indicative of broader public sentiment. They highlighted support from various non-political and social organizations that have echoed the same demands in recent press briefings. “This is not merely the BJP’s position, but represents the genuine will of the Sikkimese people,” the delegation stated, urging the CEO’s office to relay these concerns to the Election Commission of India.
The party reinforced its ‘Sikkim First’ policy, emphasizing its commitment to safeguarding the state’s constitutional identity. The Chief Electoral Officer assured the delegation of his intent to address their concerns while upholding the integrity of the electoral process, according to the BJP’s account of the discussion.
The Special Intensive Revision is intended as a comprehensive update of electoral rolls, typically aimed at ensuring the accuracy of voter lists before elections. The BJP’s insistence on adhering to Article 371F in this context underscores existing tensions regarding the application of constitutional protections to electoral processes in this northeastern state.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/sikkim/story/bjp-pushes-for-special-electoral-roll-revision-under-sikkims-constitutional-protections-1313428-2025-12-05?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-12-05 18:31:00
