Opp parties form Democratic Alliance of Sikkim

GANGTOK, 19 Dec: Democratic Alliance of Sikkim [DAS], an alliance of national and regional opposition political parties and non-political organizations in Sikkim, was formally announced on 17 December during a press conference.
DAS comprises of Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee [SPCC], Sikkim Himali Rajya Parishad Party [SHRPP], Sikkim Liberation Front [SLF], CPIM and Sikkim Gorkha Prajantantrik Party [SGPP] along with some non-political organizations.
Former Lok Sabha MP and Concerned Society of Sikkim convener, Nakul Das Rai has been appointed as the convener of DAS, while the names of the executive members and agendas of the alliance will be announced soon.
DAS convener, Mr Rai stated that in view of the present situation in the state an alliance was the need-of-the-hour in order to stand united to restore democracy in the state.
“It was the demand of the people of the state that opposition parties come on one platform to fight against the present dictatorial government. Respecting this demand of the people this alliance has been formed to take up people’s issues”, said Mr Rai.
SGPP chief advisor, NB Khatiwara said that the alliance will contest the upcoming Assembly election in 2014 on seat sharing basis, however, he added that the priority of DAS is to focus on the issues of the state and reach out to the people.
“We have invited the dissident SDF MLA, PS Golay to join the alliance as well. During our recent meeting last week, he said that he will make a decision after the formation of his party in mid January next year”, said SPCC president, NB Bhandari.
Meanwhile, the BJP state-unit president, Padam Chettri informed that he is in talks with the senior leaders of the party on joining the alliance. “This matter will be discussed thoroughly with the central committee of the party but I extend full support to DAS at an individual level”, said Mr Chettri.