Following social media reports that demoralized SDF leaders and workers were fleeing Sikkim after their assembly poll defeat, fearing attacks by ruling party cadres in post-poll violence, the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) on Monday urged them to stay back, assuring peace and security for all.
The SKM secured 31 of the 32 assembly seats, with results declared on Sunday. The SDF managed to win only one seat, and even its party supremo and five-term former chief minister Pawan Kumar Chamling lost both seats he contested.
“Dear esteemed leaders and supporters of the SDF party, we have come to learn that many of you have left Sikkim fearing potential attacks. We wish to emphasize that the SKM, once a victim of such violence, deeply understands the pain caused by these heinous acts. Our ethos strongly stands against indulging in any form of violence,” SKM spokesperson Jacob Khaling said in a statement.
He stated that Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has strictly instructed all party workers to abstain from any anti-social activities in Sikkim.
“We have vowed to maintain peace and harmony across our beloved state,” Khaling said, urging those SDF workers and leaders who have fled the state to return.
The SKM leader emphasized that the main opposition party must continue to engage with the public and work for the betterment of the people of Sikkim.
Even the chief minister, in a statement issued a few days ago, advocated for peace and security in Sikkim during the second SKM term.
SDF leaders could not be reached for their comments on the development.