GMC by-elections after formation of new government

GANGTOK, 07 May: The by-elections for the vacant post of Mayor and Councilors in the Gangtok Municipal Corporation (GMC) will be held as soon as the model code of conduct is lifted and the new government is formed, inform official sources at the UD&HD.

It may be mentioned here that the GMC is presently functioning without a Mayor after KN Topgay quit the Sikkim Democratic Front party and was removed from the post on the basis of anti-defection laws. He was a GMC councilor from Chandmari.

Similarly, the post of Upper Sichey Councilor is also lying vacant since the incumbent there, Neelu Chettri, left SDF and joined SKM.

Meanwhile, by-elections could also be held for Upper Tadong and Deorali since the two councillors, Bhasker Basnett and Uday Lama, have contested the general elections. Should they win, they will have to choose between the GMC and the Legislative Assembly and since the latter will be the obvious choice, they will have to resign from the GMC.  

It is informed that the UD&HD which is the nodal department for the GMC will start the process of the GMC by-elections once the new government is formed and is eligible to give its assent for the same. The UD&HD will write to the State Election Commission seeking the requisition for filling the vacant posts and would put up the requisition with the District Collector, East who is also the Returning Officer for the East district.

It may also be informed that the Deputy Mayor is in-charge of the GMC in the absence of the Mayor.