SKM celebrates anniv with release of “pre-election manifesto”

JORETHANG, 04 Feb: Sikkim Krantikari Morcha [SKM] celebrated its first foundation day anniversary here at Jorethang today with the release of its 46-point “pre-election manifesto”.

The party declared its policies and programmes which it promised would be fulfilled within 100 days of coming to power. Safeguard of Sikkim’s distinct identity under Article 371 F of the Indian Constitution and implementing the Local Protection Act to protect the rights of the Sikkimese people are top on the party’s agenda, it was informed.

SKM’s pre-election manifesto also promises to eradicate communal differences, safeguard the 12 Bhutia-Lepcha seats in the State Assembly, secure Limboo-Tamang seats in the State Assembly, Scheduled Tribe status to Rai, Gurung, Mangar, Bhujel, Thami, Jogi and Dewan communities including the upper caste communities of Chettri, Bahun and Newar and setting up of a separate development board for Bhutia Lepcha communities.

Also on the day, PS Tamang [Golay], officially took over as the party president and announced that he would lead the party towards change without compromising on the party policies or principles. The upcoming assembly and parliamentary election will be fought on the basis of policies, programmes and political dedication, he stated.

If SKM is voted to power then all the “wrong doings” of the SDF government will be investigated by a national investigating agency or Lokayukta, Mr. Tamang announced today.

Meanwhile, the pre-election manifesto also promises the formulation of employee friendly transfer, appointment, promotion and retirement policies for state government employees. It also assures better healthcare facilities in the state.

Decentralization of education system and the establishment of a state education board besides setting up of a medical college in the state are some of the other highlights of the pre-election manifesto.

The SKM president also accused the Director General of Police of playing unfair in granting of venues to Opposition parties for political meetings. “The role of the police is to protect and serve the state and nation, not to serve Pawan Chamling”, he said.

Mr Tamang further expressed gratitude for the constant support from the youth. SKM will be releasing its party manifesto for the elections on a later date, it is informed.