Gangtok, Nov 1 The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) on Sunday extended its support to the INDIA bloc rally at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan against alleged electoral irregularities, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the replacement of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) with ballot papers.
In a press statement, the opposition party said democracy in the country was facing serious challenges under the BJP-led government, citing growing concerns over alleged electoral malpractice, the functioning of the Election Commission of India (ECI) and allegations of vote theft.
The protest, organised under the banner of ‘Chalo Delhi’ on November 1, seeks accountability from the Chief Election Commissioner and aims to safeguard democratic and constitutional values, the SDF said.
The party said it stood in solidarity with the protesters, although its members were not physically present at Ramlila Maidan this time. SDF members had participated in a similar protest at Jantar Mantar in October, it added.
“Our support for the cause of transparency and accountability of the CEC remains unwavering,” the statement said, describing the agitation as a collective expression of citizens’ concerns rather than a movement confined to any particular political party.
The SDF said the protection of democracy and the right to free and fair elections transcended political affiliations and party boundaries.
Among its key demands, the party sought the resignation of Kumar, scrapping of the EVM system and a return to ballot paper-based elections.
The party further demanded concrete measures to restore public confidence in the Election Commission and ensure transparency, accountability and integrity in the electoral process.
“Democracy belongs to the people, and the people’s mandate must be protected,” the statement said.
The press release was issued by SDF spokesperson Yojna Khaling Rai.
(PTI News)
