The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is facing mounting criticism from both the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) and the opposition Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) as political activity gains momentum ahead of the Panchayat elections, expected in 2027.
The development comes despite the BJP and SKM being allies at the national level under the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The alliance was prominently on display during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Gangtok in April, when he was received by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and state BJP president D.R. Thapa. During the visit, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid foundation stones for projects worth over ₹4,000 crore as part of Sikkim’s 50th year of statehood celebrations.
However, recent developments suggest growing friction at the state level. Upper Burtuk MLA Kala Rai, a senior SKM leader, recently stated that the ruling party would not enter into an alliance with the BJP for the upcoming Panchayat elections. The remark marks a shift from the understanding seen during the municipal polls and signals SKM’s intention to contest the grassroots elections independently.
The BJP has also come under attack from the opposition SDF. Addressing a Kranti Diwas programme in Jorethang, former Chief Minister and SDF president Pawan Kumar Chamling cautioned against allowing Sikkim to become “another Manipur” if the BJP comes to power. He urged voters to protect the state’s long-standing tradition of peace, unity and communal harmony.
Chamling emphasised that Sikkim’s social fabric and political stability must be safeguarded, highlighting the state’s reputation for maintaining harmony among its diverse communities.
Political observers note that the BJP is navigating a challenging political landscape in Sikkim, with both the ruling party and the principal opposition criticising it despite their differing positions. The dual criticism comes as the party seeks to expand its footprint in the Himalayan state.
With the Panchayat elections still a year away, political rhetoric is expected to intensify further. While the NDA alliance remains intact at the national level, recent statements from regional leaders indicate that electoral competition in Sikkim may become increasingly sharp in the months ahead.
