The Sikkim unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has renewed its demand that the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the Electoral Roll be carried out strictly under the constitutional framework of Article 371(F), which grants special protections to the Himalayan state. The party emphasised that the revision must fully comply with the Sikkim Citizenship Order Act, 1975, and the Representation of the Sikkim Subject Act, 1974; two cornerstones of Sikkim’s legal and historical identity. A senior delegation of the BJP met the District Election Officer (DEO) in Gangtok on Tuesday to review the progress of the SIR and to convey the party’s long-standing concerns. During the meeting, the party’s representatives reiterated that electoral matters must honour the unique constitutional safeguards that have shaped Sikkim’s political and demographic landscape since its merger with India in 1975.
“The BJP’s commitment to protecting the unique identity and constitutional safeguards of Sikkim is unwavering,” the party stated after the meeting. “Article 371(F) is not just a provision but a guarantee that the historical, social, and legal foundations of Sikkim will be honoured. We have clearly articulated our demand that the electoral revision must follow these principles without compromise.” The delegation submitted a formal representation to the DEO, enclosing a comprehensive application previously submitted to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Election Department, Government of Sikkim. The document details the party’s constitutional and legal arguments, underscoring why the SIR should be aligned with Sikkim’s protected status.
The BJP said, “Our stand has always been ‘Sikkim and Sikkimese People First.’ We will never compromise on this sacred trust. Our priority is to safeguard the rights and future of the people of Sikkim.”The party also expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as the “pin-drop silence” of other political parties on the issue. According to the BJP, this silence raises concerns about whether other parties are genuinely committed to preserving Sikkim’s constitutional protections or are merely focused on retaining political power. “People of Sikkim must see through this duplicity,” the party said, urging the electorate to remain vigilant.The BJP has said that it will continue to closely monitor the ongoing electoral revision process and take necessary steps to ensure that the interests of the Sikkimese people remain fully protected.