Sikkim Krantikari Morcha: SKM’s Rise to Power and Political Journey in Sikkim

The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM), also known as the Sikkim Revolutionary Front, has emerged as a prominent political force in the state of Sikkim, holding power since 2019. Led by PS Golay, a former member of the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), the party has witnessed a remarkable political journey.

PS Golay, once a minister in the Sikkim government with the SDF, turned into a vocal critic of the party’s leader, Pawan Kumar Chamling, leading to the formation of SKM on February 4, 2013, marking a significant turning point in Sikkimese politics.

In 2019, PS Golay’s leadership saw him assume the position of Chief Minister of Sikkim, ending Pawan Kumar Chamling’s 25-year reign. This marked a monumental shift in governance for the state.

The Sikkim Krantikari Morcha’s (SKM) emergence as the second-largest party in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly elections of April 12, 2014, with 10 seats, positioned them as a formidable opposition, challenging the established political dynamics.

Under Golay’s leadership, SKM underwent organizational changes in 2017, electing Kunga Nima Lepcha as Acting President, along with MPs Subba and Navin Karki as Working Presidents. Arun Upreti was appointed as the Secretary General, solidifying the party’s structure.

Prior to the 2019 Indian Elections, SKM deliberated forming an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) but eventually opted for a solo campaign. Post the 2019 Sikkim Legislative Assembly elections, SKM joined the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on May 26, 2019, aligning with the BJP at the national level.