1. PD Rai of Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) led a delegation alleging Model Code of Conduct breaches by SKM.
2. Rai raised concerns over transparency in SKM’s funding sources post-meeting with the Chief Electoral officer.
3. The allegations point to potential violations by the ruling SKM party ahead of elections.
Gangtok, March 19: Former Lok Sabha MP and senior Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) leader PD Rai spearheaded a delegation to meet the Chief Electoral Officer on March 19, leveling allegations of Model Code of Conduct violations against the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) party.
Following the meeting, Rai addressed the media, expressing concerns regarding the transparency of the funding sources of the SKM party. He particularly questioned SKM party chief Prem Singh Tamang about the utilization of their funds.
Rai defended the utilization of electoral bonds, citing their legality before their recent invalidation by the Supreme Court. He extended gratitude to the Chief Electoral Officer for their attention to their grievances, asserting that their demands were duly acknowledged.
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Additionally, Rai underscored the persistent issue of Presidential rule in the state, citing instances of past violence that have eroded public trust in law enforcement.
He accused the SKM party and its affiliates of flouting the Model Code of Conduct, specifically highlighting the Department of Personnel’s issuance of orders, which he deemed a blatant violation.
These concerns, Rai emphasized, were formally brought to the attention of the Chief Electoral Officer.