The State Election Commission of Sikkim has announced that municipal elections will be held on April 24, with counting of votes scheduled for April 25. The poll schedule was formally declared by State Election Commissioner K.C. Lepcha (Retd. IAS).
According to the notified programme, March 30 is the last date for filing nomination papers. Scrutiny of nominations will take place on April 1, during which election authorities will verify candidates’ documents and eligibility. The final date for withdrawal of candidature is April 4.
Polling will be conducted across all notified municipal bodies in the state. The administrative machinery is expected to be deployed well in advance to ensure a free, fair, and smooth electoral process. Counting will commence at 8:00 AM on April 25, with results expected the same day.
The announcement has set the stage for intense political activity in Sikkim, as parties and independent candidates prepare for grassroots-level battles that will determine the composition of urban local governance in the state. Municipal polls in Sikkim have historically witnessed active participation, with local issues, service delivery, and development projects forming the core of electoral campaigns.
Also read: Sikkim issues avalanche warning for high-altitude zones
In the previous municipal elections held in 2021, the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) and the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) emerged as principal contenders, with SKM making significant gains in urban centres. Voter turnout in the last polls was recorded at over 70 per cent, reflecting high engagement among urban voters.
Analysts say the upcoming polls will be closely watched for indications of public sentiment ahead of the next legislative assembly elections, particularly in Gangtok, Namchi, and other key municipal areas.
State Election Commissioner Lepcha emphasised the Commission’s commitment to ensuring transparency and adherence to the model code of conduct during the election process. Authorities have also urged citizens to participate actively while following all electoral guidelines.
Follow us
