September 21, 2025, Gangtok: Nine political leaders from three key constituencies in Sikkim’s Melli region joined the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) this week, strengthening the party’s base ahead of future elections.
The new members include Kushal Chettri, Bimla Karki, Shiva Kumar Karki, Phul Maya Chettri, Bishnu Chettri, Julu Chettri, Pranita Rai, Pradeep Chettri, and Jamuna Chettri from Melli Chalisey, Melli Bazaar and Karabari areas. Several leaders previously worked with the opposition Citizen Action Party (CAP).
“People are recognizing that CAP has deviated from their original promises and now opposes every people-friendly policy,” said a senior SKM leader during the induction ceremony held in the Melli region.
The political shift highlights growing support for Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay’s development agenda in rural areas. Local sources indicate that opposition to government welfare schemes by CAP has caused voter dissatisfaction in these constituencies.
Leaders joined SKM citing the ruling party’s focus on infrastructure development and employment generation in the border region. The Melli area, located near West Bengal, holds strategic importance for Sikkim’s electoral politics and development planning.
Party officials confirmed that all nine members joined “with full faith and commitment” to SKM’s policies. The induction strengthens the ruling party’s organizational presence in constituencies that often influence broader political trends across the state.
Political observers note similar defections from opposition parties to SKM across multiple districts in recent months. This pattern suggests shifting voter preferences toward the incumbent government’s development narrative and welfare initiatives.
The new additions boost SKM’s grassroots network in the Melli belt, where voters prioritize infrastructure projects, job creation, and border area development. These constituencies have historically been swing areas that determine statewide electoral outcomes.