Former OSD to CM to contest as independent from Rhenock

GANGTOK, 26 Mar: After resigning from the Sikkim Democratic Front, OP Bhandari filed his nomination papers for the upcoming Assembly election as an independent candidate from Rhenock constituency today. Former OSD [Legal] to the Chief Minister, Mr. Bhandari submitted his resignation to the SDF party on 18 March, it is informed.

Addressing a press conference today after filing his nomination, Mr Bhandari claimed that the people of Rhenock constituency wanted him as their candidate but the ruling party has again fielded a candidate against the wishes of the people of the area. “I wanted the party to cancel Bhim Dhungel’s candidature and give me a chance this time but with many excuses the party declined,” he added.

“Even if I am not elected as the MLA I will work for the betterment of the area by filing PILs”, he stated.

Since the party has failed to see him as someone with potential he stated that he will now prove his capability as an independent candidate. Mr Bhandari alleged that the party should not have given tickets to former MLAs and Ministers who are being investigated by the Patra Commission. “The Returning Officers should check if these persons have mentioned this in their affidavits otherwise I will find out myself,” said Mr. Bhandari.