Sikkim's Electoral Battle: SKM Dominates Early Trends

The ruling SKM is leading in 27 of the 32 assembly seats in Sikkim, according to initial trends. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang is ahead by 1,400 votes in Rhenock, while former CM Pawan Kumar Chamling is trailing in multiple constituencies. Counting is underway across all districts.

The ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) is emerging as the frontrunner in 27 of the 32 assembly seats in Sikkim, based on early trends from the Election Commission's website.

Counting of votes commenced on Sunday at designated centers in each of the state's six districts. Initial trends show Chief Minister and SKM candidate Prem Singh Tamang leading his nearest rival, the SDF's Som Nath Poudyal, by approximately 1,400 votes in the Rhenock constituency. In contrast, former Chief Minister and SDF leader Pawan Kumar Chamling is trailing behind SKM candidates in both Namcheybung and Poklok-Kamrang constituencies.

Other key battles include SKM's Sonam Lama, who has a slight edge over BJP's Tseten Tashi Bhutia in Sangha, and Puran Kumar Gurung leading against Mani Kumar Gurung of SDF in Chujachen. In Gangtok, SKM's Delay Namgyal Barfungpa holds a 1,053-vote lead against the BJP's Pema Aanchal Rinzing. Tight security measures are in place as postal ballots were counted first, followed by the EVM votes.