Sikkim National People's Party: Difference between revisions

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|abbreviation      = SNPP
|abbreviation      = SNPP
|colorcode        = {{party color|Sikkim National People's Party}}
|colorcode        = {{party color|Sikkim National People's Party}}
|secretary        =
|leader            = [[Delay Namgyal Barfungpa]]
|foundation        = {{Start date and years ago|df=yes|p=y|2008|10|10}}
|foundation        = {{Start date and years ago|df=yes|p=y|2008|10|10}}
|dissolution    = {{Start date and years ago|df=yes|p=y|2022|03|22}}
|founder          = [[Biraj Adhikari]]
|founder          = [[Biraj Adhikari]]
|predecessor      =
|merged  = [[Sikkim Krantikari Morcha]]
|split            =  
|headquarters      = [[Gangtok]], [[Sikkim]], [[India]].
|headquarters      = [[Gangtok]], [[Sikkim]], [[India]].
|publication      =  
|president  = [[Biraj Adhikari]] > [[Delay Namgyal Barfungpa]]
|ideology          = [[Localism (politics)|Localism]]
|ideology          = [[Localism (politics)|Localism]]
|colours          = White{{Colorsample|#ffffff}} and Red{{Colorsample|#dc1217}}
|colours          = White{{Colorsample|#ffffff}} and Red{{Colorsample|#dc1217}}
|position          = [[Localism (politics)|Localism]]
|eci              = [[List of political parties in India#Unrecognised parties|Registered-Unrecognized State Party]] ([[Sikkim]]) (2019–22)<ref name=ECI190925>{{cite web|title=Amending notification regarding political parties and their election symbols dated 25.09.2019|url=https://old.eci.gov.in/files/file/10767-amending-notification-regarding-political-parties-and-their-election-symbols-dated-25092019/|publisher=Election Commission of India (ECI)|access-date=31 October 2019|year=2019}} SNPP was registered in this list with No.2463.</ref>
|eci              = [[List of political parties in India#Unrecognised parties|Registered-Unrecognized State Party]] ([[Sikkim]])<ref name=ECI190925>{{cite web|title=Amending notification regarding political parties and their election symbols dated 25.09.2019|url=https://eci.gov.in/files/file/10767-amending-notification-regarding-political-parties-and-their-election-symbols-dated-25092019/|publisher=Election Commission of India (ECI)|access-date=31 October 2019|year=2019}} SNPP was registered in this list with No.2463.</ref>
|alliance          = [[Sikkim Progressive Alliance]] (2019)
|alliance          = [[Sikkim Progressive Alliance]] (2019-present)
|national_convener =
|loksabha_seats    =
|rajyasabha_seats  =
|state_seats_name  = [[Sikkim Legislative Assembly]]
|state_seats_name  = [[Sikkim Legislative Assembly]]
|state_seats      = {{Composition bar|0|32|hex=#009900}}
|flag              =
|party_logo        =
|website          = {{URL|http://www.snppsikkim.com/}}
}}
}}


'''Sikkim National People's Party (SNPP)''' is a regional political party (State Party (Unrecognized)) in the Indian state of Sikkim. Incumbent president of this party is [[Delay Namgyal Barfungpa]] (Delay Kazi Barfungpa). Election symbol is Pen Nib. SNPP doesn't have any relationship with [[Sikkim National Party]] (SNP) in same state or [[National People's Party (India)|National People's Party]] (NPP) in the state of [[Meghalaya]].
The '''Sikkim National People's Party''' ('''SNPP''') was a regional political party (State Party (Unrecognized)) in the Indian state of Sikkim. The election symbol of the party was a pen nib. SNPP didn't have any relationship with [[Sikkim National Party]] (SNP) in same state or [[National People's Party (India)|National People's Party]] (NPP) in the state of [[Meghalaya]].


==History ==
==History ==
===Pre-SNPP history===
===Pre-SNPP history===
[[Biraj Adhikari]] and [[Delay Namgyal Barfungpa]] were members of the [[Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee]] (SPCC. Sikkim branch of [[Indian National Congress]] (INC)) which was led by [[Nar Bahadur Bhandari]]. In 2004, as the candidates of INC, Adhikari contested [[Sikkim (Lok Sabha constituency)|the sole Lok Sabha seat from Sikkim]],<ref>{{cite web|title=STATISTICAL REPORT ON GENERAL ELECTIONS, 2004 TO THE 14th LOK SABHA VOLUME III|url=https://eci.gov.in/files/file/3363-sikkim-2004/|publisher=ECI|access-date=31 October 2019|year=2004}}</ref> Barfungpa contested [[2004 Sikkim Legislative Assembly election|the Sikkim Legislative seat]] from [[Martam-Rumtek (Vidhan Sabha constituency)|Rumtek Constituency]].<ref>{{cite web|title=STATISTICAL REPORT ON GENERAL ELECTION, 2004 TO THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF SIKKIM|url=https://eci.gov.in/files/file/3363-sikkim-2004/|publisher=ECI|access-date=31 October 2019|year=2004}}</ref> Both were defeated by candidates of the ruling party [[Sikkim Democratic Front]] (SDF).
[[Biraj Adhikari]] and [[Delay Namgyal Barfungpa]] were members of the [[Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee]] (SPCC, Sikkim branch of [[Indian National Congress]] (INC)) which was led by [[Nar Bahadur Bhandari]]. In 2004, as the candidates of INC, Adhikari contested [[Sikkim (Lok Sabha constituency)|the sole Lok Sabha seat from Sikkim]],<ref>{{cite web|title=STATISTICAL REPORT ON GENERAL ELECTIONS, 2004 TO THE 14th LOK SABHA VOLUME III|url=https://old.eci.gov.in/files/file/3363-sikkim-2004/|publisher=ECI|access-date=31 October 2019|year=2004}}</ref> Barfungpa contested [[2004 Sikkim Legislative Assembly election|the Sikkim Legislative seat]] from [[Martam-Rumtek (Vidhan Sabha constituency)|Rumtek Constituency]].<ref>{{cite web|title=STATISTICAL REPORT ON GENERAL ELECTION, 2004 TO THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF SIKKIM|url=https://old.eci.gov.in/files/file/3363-sikkim-2004/|publisher=ECI|access-date=31 October 2019|year=2004}}</ref> Both were defeated by candidates of the ruling party [[Sikkim Democratic Front]] (SDF).


In May 2006, because of discontent with Bhandari's leadership, Biraji Adhikari seceded from SPCC.<ref>{{cite news|title=Seven from Sikkim quit Congress|url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/west-bengal/seven-from-sikkim-quit-congress/cid/804255|newspaper=The Telegraph |access-date=20 November 2019|date=28 May 2006}}</ref> He joined [[Sikkim Himali Rajya Parishad]] (SHRP) as the spokesperson of it.<ref>{{cite news|title=SHRP demands white paper on rights of Limboo-Tamang|url=https://www.oneindia.com/2008/02/16/shrp-demands-white-paper-on-rights-of-limboo-tamang-1203218754.html|newspaper=oneindia |access-date=28 November 2019|date=17 February 2008}}</ref> Meanwhile, it is not much information on the movement of Delay Namgyal Barfungpa from 2004 to 2008, but he also seceded from SPCC at some point.
In May 2006, because of discontent with Bhandari's leadership, Biraji Adhikari seceded from SPCC.<ref>{{cite news|title=Seven from Sikkim quit Congress|url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/seven-from-sikkim-quit-congress/cid/804255|newspaper=The Telegraph |access-date=20 November 2019|date=28 May 2006}}</ref> He joined [[Sikkim Himali Rajya Parishad]] (SHRP) as the spokesperson of it.<ref>{{cite news|title=SHRP demands white paper on rights of Limboo-Tamang|url=https://www.oneindia.com/2008/02/16/shrp-demands-white-paper-on-rights-of-limboo-tamang-1203218754.html|newspaper=oneindia |access-date=28 November 2019|date=17 February 2008}}</ref> Meanwhile, there is not much information on the movement of Delay Namgyal Barfungpa from 2004 to 2008, but he also seceded from SPCC at some point.


===Establishment of SNPP===
===Establishment of SNPP===
On 10 October 2008, Adhikari seceded from SHRP, and established the new party, '''Sikkim National People's Party (SNPP)''' for fighting with SDF. Adhikari was elected to the president, [[Tseten Dorjee Lepcha]] was elected as the working president, and Delay Namgyal Barfungpa was elected to the tresurer.<ref>{{cite news|title=State government and central government should protect our right: Biraj Adhikari|url=http://prabinkhaling.blogspot.com/2009/03/gangtok28-marchpress-releasethe-party.html?m=1|newspaper=prabinkhaling.blogspot|access-date=21 November 2019|date=28 March 2009}}</ref>
On 10 October 2008, Adhikari seceded from SHRP, and established the new party, '''Sikkim National People's Party (SNPP)''' for fighting with SDF. Adhikari was elected to the president, [[Tseten Dorjee Lepcha]] was elected as the working president, and Delay Namgyal Barfungpa was elected to the treasurer.<ref>{{cite news|title=State government and central government should protect our right: Biraj Adhikari|url=http://prabinkhaling.blogspot.com/2009/03/gangtok28-marchpress-releasethe-party.html?m=1|newspaper=prabinkhaling.blogspot|access-date=21 November 2019|date=28 March 2009}}</ref>


In [[2009 Sikkim Legislative Assembly election|the Sikkim Legislative Assembly election of 2009]], Adhikari contested from 2 constituencies ([[Rhenock (Vidhan Sabha constituency)|Rhenock]] and [[Chujachen (Vidhan Sabha constituency)|Chujachen]]), Tseten Dorjee Lepcha contested from [[Djongu (Vidhan Sabha constituency)|Djongu constituency]] and Barfungpa contested from [[Gangtok (Vidhan Sabha constituency)|Gangtok constituency]]. SNPP formed the electoral alliance, [[United Sikkimese Alliance]] (USA) with [[Sikkim Jan-Ekta Party]] (SJEP).<ref>{{cite news|title=SNPP, SJP forms ‘United Sikkimese Alliance’|url=http://prabinkhaling.blogspot.com/2009/04/snpp-sjp-forms-united-sikkimese.html?m=1|newspaper=prabinkhaling.blogspot|access-date=21 November 2019|date=2 April 2009}}</ref> With the exception of SJEP, SNPP didn't affiliate with SPCC or other opposition parties.
In [[2009 Sikkim Legislative Assembly election|the Sikkim Legislative Assembly election of 2009]], Adhikari contested from 2 constituencies ([[Rhenock (Vidhan Sabha constituency)|Rhenock]] and [[Chujachen (Vidhan Sabha constituency)|Chujachen]]), Tseten Dorjee Lepcha contested from [[Djongu (Vidhan Sabha constituency)|Djongu constituency]] and Barfungpa contested from [[Gangtok (Vidhan Sabha constituency)|Gangtok constituency]]. SNPP formed the electoral alliance, [[United Sikkimese Alliance]] (USA) with [[Sikkim Jan-Ekta Party]] (SJEP).<ref>{{cite news|title=SNPP, SJP forms 'United Sikkimese Alliance'|url=http://prabinkhaling.blogspot.com/2009/04/snpp-sjp-forms-united-sikkimese.html?m=1|newspaper=prabinkhaling.blogspot|access-date=21 November 2019|date=2 April 2009}}</ref> With the exception of SJEP, SNPP didn't affiliate with SPCC or other opposition parties.


However, SNPP couldn't be registered in the List of Political Parties of [[Election Commission of India]] (ECI) before the election period,<ref>{{cite web|title=Political Parties And Election Symbols as on 14-03-2009|url=https://eci.gov.in/files/file/4148-political-parties-and-election-symbols-as-on-14-03-2009/|publisher=ECI|access-date=1 November 2019|date=14 March 2009}} Meanwhile, SJEP could be registered in this List as the No. 894.</ref> so they had to run as independent candidates. As a result, they received 6.26% votes (Tseten Dorjee Lepcha in Djongu) or less in each constituency.<ref>{{cite web|title=STATISTICAL REPORT ON GENERAL ELECTION, 2009 TO THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF SIKKIM|url=https://eci.gov.in/files/file/3364-sikkim-2009/|publisher=ECI|access-date=31 October 2019|year=2009}}</ref>
However, SNPP couldn't be registered in the List of Political Parties of [[Election Commission of India]] (ECI) before the election period,<ref>{{cite web|title=Political Parties And Election Symbols as on 14-03-2009|url=https://old.eci.gov.in/files/file/4148-political-parties-and-election-symbols-as-on-14-03-2009/|publisher=ECI|access-date=1 November 2019|date=14 March 2009}} Meanwhile, SJEP could be registered in this List as the No. 894.</ref> so they had to run as independent candidates. As a result, they received 6.26% votes (Tseten Dorjee Lepcha in Djongu) or less in each constituency.<ref>{{cite web|title=STATISTICAL REPORT ON GENERAL ELECTION, 2009 TO THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF SIKKIM|url=https://old.eci.gov.in/files/file/3364-sikkim-2009/|publisher=ECI|access-date=31 October 2019|year=2009}}</ref>


===Secession of Adhikari===
===Secession of Adhikari===
Delay Namgyal Barfungpa was promoted to the vice president of SNPP at some point from 2009 to 2012. In [[2014 Sikkim Legislative Assembly election|the Sikkim Legislative Assembly election of 2014]] SNPP didn't contest and appealed voters to be politically conscious, pointing out the [[None of the above (India)|"None of the Above" (NOTA)]] option.<ref>{{cite news|title=SNPP appeals voters to be politically conscious, points out NOTA option|url=http://sikkimnow.blogspot.com/2014/03/snpp-appeals-voters-to-be-politically.html|newspaper=Sikkim NOW!|access-date=31 October 2019|date=26 March 2014}}</ref>
Delay Namgyal Barfungpa was promoted to the vice president of SNPP at some point from 2009 to 2012. In [[2014 Sikkim Legislative Assembly election|the Sikkim Legislative Assembly election of 2014]] SNPP didn't contest and appealed to voters to be politically conscious, pointing out the [[None of the above (India)|"None of the Above" (NOTA)]] option.<ref>{{cite news|title=SNPP appeals voters to be politically conscious, points out NOTA option|url=http://sikkimnow.blogspot.com/2014/03/snpp-appeals-voters-to-be-politically.html|newspaper=Sikkim NOW!|access-date=31 October 2019|date=26 March 2014}}</ref>


In January 2018 SNPP announced that it would contest the [[2019 Sikkim Legislative Assembly election|Sikkim Legislative Assembly Election 2019]].<ref>{{cite news|title=SNPP to contest 2019 Sikkim assembly polls|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/snpp-to-contest-2019-sikkim-assembly-polls-118012900726_1.html|newspaper=Business Standard|access-date=31 October 2019|date=29 January 2018}}</ref> However, in August 2018 Adhikari resigned from the president and seceded from SNPP. He transferred to [[Hamro Sikkim Party]] (HSP) which is led by [[Bhaichung Bhutia]], and Adhikari was appointed to the spokesperson of the party.<ref>{{cite news|title=K.N. Upreti & Biraj Adhikari joins Hamro Sikkim Party|url=http://sikkimexpress.com/NewsDetails?ContentID=11691|newspaper=Sikkim Express|access-date=31 October 2019|date=6 August 2018}}</ref> Barfungpa didn't follow Adhikari, and Barfungpa was elected to the SNPP president by party members.<ref>{{cite news|title=Delay Namgyal is new SNPP president|url=http://sikkimexpress.com/NewsDetails?ContentID=11793&SectionID=|newspaper=Sikkim Express|access-date=31 October 2019|date=13 August 2018}}</ref>
In January 2018 SNPP announced that it would contest the [[2019 Sikkim Legislative Assembly election|Sikkim Legislative Assembly Election 2019]].<ref>{{cite news|title=SNPP to contest 2019 Sikkim assembly polls|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/snpp-to-contest-2019-sikkim-assembly-polls-118012900726_1.html|newspaper=Business Standard|access-date=31 October 2019|date=29 January 2018}}</ref> However, in August 2018 Adhikari resigned from the president and seceded from SNPP. He transferred to [[Hamro Sikkim Party]] (HSP) which is led by [[Bhaichung Bhutia]], and Adhikari was appointed to the spokesperson of the party.<ref>{{cite news|title=K.N. Upreti & Biraj Adhikari joins Hamro Sikkim Party|url=http://sikkimexpress.com/NewsDetails?ContentID=11691|newspaper=Sikkim Express|access-date=31 October 2019|date=6 August 2018}}</ref> Barfungpa didn't follow Adhikari, and Barfungpa was elected to the SNPP president by party members.<ref>{{cite news|title=Delay Namgyal is new SNPP president|url=http://sikkimexpress.com/NewsDetails?ContentID=11793&SectionID=|newspaper=Sikkim Express|access-date=31 October 2019|date=13 August 2018}}</ref>


===Barfungpa’s leaderships===
===Barfungpa’s leaderships===
In March 2019 SNPP participated in the election alliance, [[Sikkim Progressive Alliance]] (SPA) which was formed by [[Sikkim Sangram Parishad]] (SSP), [[Sikkim Rajya Manch|Sikkim Rajya Manch Party]] (SRMP) and [[Sikkim United Front Party]] (SUFP).<ref>{{cite news|title=Four Parties form Sikkim Progressive Alliance|url=http://www.uniindia.com/~/four-parties-form-sikkim-progressive-alliance/States/news/1528140.html|newspaper=United News of India|access-date=31 October 2019|date=14 March 2019}}</ref> SPA sent 8 candidates for [[2019 Sikkim Legislative Assembly election]], 1 candidate for [[Sikkim (Lok Sabha constituency)|2019 Sikkim Lok Sabah election]], and 3 of 9 were SNPP candidates.<ref>{{cite news|title=SPA Announces 9 Candidates Including Lok Sabha Candidate|url=https://voiceofsikkim.com/2019/03/18/spa-announces-9-candidates-including-lok-sabha-candidate/|newspaper=The Voice of Sikkim (TVOS)|access-date=22 November 2019|date=17 March 2019}} However, on the eve this election, SSP withdrew its candidate, Tara Battarai in Upper Tadong.</ref>
In March 2019 SNPP participated in the election alliance, [[Sikkim Progressive Alliance]] (SPA) which was formed by [[Sikkim Sangram Parishad]] (SSP), [[Sikkim Rajya Manch|Sikkim Rajya Manch Party]] (SRMP) and [[Sikkim United Front Party]] (SUFP).<ref>{{cite news|title=Four Parties form Sikkim Progressive Alliance|url=http://www.uniindia.com/~/four-parties-form-sikkim-progressive-alliance/States/news/1528140.html|newspaper=United News of India|access-date=31 October 2019|date=14 March 2019}}</ref> SPA sent 8 candidates for [[2019 Sikkim Legislative Assembly election]], 1 candidate for [[Sikkim (Lok Sabha constituency)|2019 Sikkim Lok Sabah election]], and 3 of 9 were SNPP candidates.<ref>{{cite news|title=SPA Announces 9 Candidates Including Lok Sabha Candidate|url=https://voiceofsikkim.com/2019/03/18/spa-announces-9-candidates-including-lok-sabha-candidate/|newspaper=The Voice of Sikkim (TVOS)|access-date=22 November 2019|date=17 March 2019}} However, on the eve of this election, SSP withdrew its candidate, Tara Battarai in Upper Tadong.</ref>


But SNPP had not been registered in the List of Political Parties of ECI by the election date.<ref>{{cite web|title=POLITICAL PARTIES AND ELECTION SYMBOLS|url=https://eci.gov.in/files/file/10381-political-parties-and-election-symbols/|publisher=ECI|access-date=1 November 2019|date=1 April 2019}}</ref> Barfungpa and other 2 SNPP candidates had to run as independent candidates, again. Barfungpa received only 97 votes (1.31%, 4th position of 6 candidates) in Gangtok constituency.<ref>{{cite news|title=Gangtok Election Result 2019 LIVE COUNTING|url=https://www.firstpost.com/sikkim-assembly-elections/gangtok-election-results-2019-s21a027|newspaper=Firstpost|access-date=31 October 2019|date=27 May 2019}}</ref>
But SNPP had not been registered in the List of Political Parties of ECI by the election date.<ref>{{cite web|title=POLITICAL PARTIES AND ELECTION SYMBOLS|url=https://old.eci.gov.in/files/file/10381-political-parties-and-election-symbols/|publisher=ECI|access-date=1 November 2019|date=1 April 2019}}</ref> Barfungpa and another 2 SNPP candidates had to run as independent candidates, again. Barfungpa received only 97 votes (1.31%, 4th position of 6 candidates) in Gangtok constituency.<ref>{{cite news|title=Gangtok Election Result 2019 LIVE COUNTING|url=https://www.firstpost.com/sikkim-assembly-elections/gangtok-election-results-2019-s21a027|newspaper=Firstpost|access-date=31 October 2019|date=27 May 2019|archive-date=7 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190607222255/https://www.firstpost.com/sikkim-assembly-elections/gangtok-election-results-2019-s21a027|url-status=dead}}</ref>


Before the October same year By-Election of Sikkim Legislative Assembly (3 constituencies), the candidate of HSP from Gangtok constituency, Bhaichung Bhutia proposed a pre-poll alliance to Barfungpa, but Barfungpa didn't accept it.<ref name=SE>{{cite news|title=Delay Namgyal critical of BJP entry plan in Sikkim|url=http://sikkimexpress.com/NewsDetails?ContentID=87727&SectionID=|newspaper=Sikkim Express|access-date=31 October 2019|date=19 October 2019}}</ref> SNPP was planning to participate this By-Election, and sent only Barfungpa for contesting from Gangtok constituency as an independent candidate third times.
Before the October same year By-Election of Sikkim Legislative Assembly (3 constituencies), the candidate of HSP from Gangtok constituency, Bhaichung Bhutia proposed a pre-poll alliance to Barfungpa, but Barfungpa didn't accept it.<ref name=SE>{{cite news|title=Delay Namgyal critical of BJP entry plan in Sikkim|url=http://sikkimexpress.com/NewsDetails?ContentID=87727&SectionID=|newspaper=Sikkim Express|access-date=31 October 2019|date=19 October 2019}}</ref> SNPP was planning to participate in this By-Election, and sent only Barfungpa to contest from Gangtok constituency as an independent candidate for a third time.


Just at that time, SNPP had finally been registered to the List of the Political Parties of ECI as the State Party (Unrecognized) on September 25, 2019.<ref name=ECI190925/> As the result, this is the first election that SNPP could contest by using its own party's name.
Just at that time, SNPP had finally been registered to the List of the Political Parties of ECI as the State Party (Unrecognized) on September 25, 2019.<ref name=ECI190925/> As the result, this was the first and final election that SNPP could contest by using its own party's name.


In this By-Election from Gangtok constituency, the candidate of [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] (BJP), [[Yong Tshering Lepcha]] elected by 2,508 (40.88%) votes. At the same time, Barfungpa became a runner-up candidate by 1,498 (24.42%) votes, and he could refund his deposit of candidacy.<ref>{{cite news|title=Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang wins from Poklok Kamrang seat, BJP bags two seats|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/sikkim-cm-prem-singh-tamang-wins-from-poklok-kamrang-seat-bjp-bags-two-seats/articleshow/71740255.cms|newspaper=Economic Times|access-date=31 October 2019|date=24 October 2019}}</ref>
In this By-Election from Gangtok constituency, the candidate of [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] (BJP), [[Yong Tshering Lepcha]] was elected by 2,508 (40.88%) votes. At the same time, Barfungpa became a runner-up candidate by 1,498 (24.42%) votes, and he could refund his deposit of candidacy.<ref>{{cite news|title=Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang wins from Poklok Kamrang seat, BJP bags two seats|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/sikkim-cm-prem-singh-tamang-wins-from-poklok-kamrang-seat-bjp-bags-two-seats/articleshow/71740255.cms|newspaper=Economic Times|access-date=31 October 2019|date=24 October 2019}}</ref>
 
===SNPP merged into SKM===
 
In March 2022 Delay Namgyal Barfungpa joined the ruling [[Sikkim Krantikari Morcha]] (SKM) and merged SNPP with SKM. SNPP executive members and party supporters also officially merged with it.<ref>{{cite news|title=DELAY NAMGYAL'S SNPP MERGES WITH SKM|url=http://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/delay-namgyals-snpp-merges-with-skm|newspaper=Sikkim Express|access-date=17 November 2022|date=23 March 2022}}</ref>


== Ideology and political positions ==
== Ideology and political positions ==
SNPP advocates that safeguarding for interests of Sikkimese people and the special status for the state of Sikkim. It insists that the protection of the [[Constitution of India]]'s Article 371F<ref>{{cite news|title=No match for Sikkim's victorious regional parties since 1979|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/elections/assembly-elections/sikkim/no-match-for-sikkims-victorious-regional-parties-since-1979/articleshow/68700102.cms|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=31 October 2019|date=3 April 2019}}</ref> and the reintroduction of the Sikkim Tax Manual.<ref>{{cite news|title=Sikkim party wants old tax law back|url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/west-bengal/sikkim-party-wants-old-tax-law-back/cid/1455022|newspaper=The Telegraph|access-date=31 October 2019|date=27 March 2018}} In 2008, Sikkim Tax Manual had been repealed by the introduction of [[the Income-tax Act, 1961]].</ref> SNPP demands that [[Government of Sikkim]] has to provide free electricity & medicines for the people of Sikkim.<ref name=NE>{{cite news|title=SNPP demands free electricity & medicines, says SDF failed to deliver basic facilities|url=https://thenortheasttoday.com/sikkim-snpp-demands-free-electricity-medicines-says-sdf-failed-to-deliver-basic-facilities/|newspaper=the northeast today|access-date=8 November 2019|date=8 December 2018}}</ref>
SNPP advocated the safeguarding of interests of Sikkimese people and the special status for the state of Sikkim. It insisted that the protection of the [[Constitution of India]]'s Article 371F<ref>{{cite news|title=No match for Sikkim's victorious regional parties since 1979|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/elections/assembly-elections/sikkim/no-match-for-sikkims-victorious-regional-parties-since-1979/articleshow/68700102.cms|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=31 October 2019|date=3 April 2019}}</ref> and the reintroduction of the Sikkim Tax Manual.<ref>{{cite news|title=Sikkim party wants old tax law back|url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/west-bengal/sikkim-party-wants-old-tax-law-back/cid/1455022|newspaper=The Telegraph|access-date=31 October 2019|date=27 March 2018}} In 2008, Sikkim Tax Manual had been repealed by the introduction of [[the Income-tax Act, 1961]].</ref> SNPP demanded that [[Government of Sikkim]] has to provide free electricity & medicines for the people of Sikkim.<ref name=NE>{{cite news|title=SNPP demands free electricity & medicines, says SDF failed to deliver basic facilities|url=https://thenortheasttoday.com/sikkim-snpp-demands-free-electricity-medicines-says-sdf-failed-to-deliver-basic-facilities/|newspaper=the northeast today|access-date=8 November 2019|date=8 December 2018}}</ref>


SNPP also demands that the Nepali seats in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly should be reinstated. At the same time, it opposes to the merger of Darjeeling hills with Sikkim.<ref name=NE/>
SNPP also demanded that the Nepali seats in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly should be reinstated. At the same time, it opposed the merger of Darjeeling hills with Sikkim.<ref name=NE/>


In December 2012 Delay Namgyal Barfungpa petitioned the Supreme Court with corruption allegations against the ruling political party (1994-2019) SDF Government.<ref>{{cite news|title=Delay Namgyal petitions Supreme Court with corruption allegations against CM and State Govt|url=http://sikkimnow.blogspot.com/2012/01/delay-namgyal-petitions-supreme-court.html|newspaper=Sikkim NOW!|access-date=31 October 2019|date=27 January 2012}}</ref> In May 2019 Barfungpa attended the swearing-in ceremony for the Chief Minister of Sikkim, [[Prem Singh Tamang]] (P.S. Golay) who is the president of [[Sikkim Krantikari Morcha]] (SKM). Conversely, the former Chief Minister and president of SDF, [[Pawan Kumar Chamling]] had boycotted it.<ref>{{cite news|title=PS Golay takes oath as Sikkim’s 6th CM|url=http://www.sikkimexpress.com/NewsDetails?ContentID=75563&SectionID=|newspaper=Sikkim Express|access-date=31 October 2019|date=28 March 2019}}</ref> In the by-election 2019 Barfungpa criticized that the BJP-SKM alliance is a kind of backdoor politics.<ref name=SE/>
In December 2012 Delay Namgyal Barfungpa petitioned the Supreme Court with corruption allegations against the ruling political party (1994-2019) SDF Government.<ref>{{cite news|title=Delay Namgyal petitions Supreme Court with corruption allegations against CM and State Govt|url=http://sikkimnow.blogspot.com/2012/01/delay-namgyal-petitions-supreme-court.html|newspaper=Sikkim NOW!|access-date=31 October 2019|date=27 January 2012}}</ref> In May 2019 Barfungpa attended the swearing-in ceremony for the Chief Minister of Sikkim, [[Prem Singh Tamang]] (P.S. Golay) who is the president of [[Sikkim Krantikari Morcha]] (SKM). Conversely, the former Chief Minister and president of SDF, [[Pawan Kumar Chamling]] had boycotted it.<ref>{{cite news|title=PS Golay takes oath as Sikkim's 6th CM|url=http://www.sikkimexpress.com/NewsDetails?ContentID=75563&SectionID=|newspaper=Sikkim Express|access-date=31 October 2019|date=28 March 2019}}</ref> In the by-election 2019 Barfungpa criticized that the BJP-SKM alliance is a kind of backdoor politics.<ref name=SE/>


== Electoral records ==
== Electoral records ==
Line 89: Line 83:
==Presidents==
==Presidents==
*1st [[Biraj Adhikari]] (10 October 2008 - 4 August 2018)
*1st [[Biraj Adhikari]] (10 October 2008 - 4 August 2018)
*2nd [[Delay Namgyal Barfungpa]] (13 August 2018 - Incumbent)
*2nd [[Delay Namgyal Barfungpa]] (13 August 2018 - 22 March 2022)


==Organisation==
==Organisation==

Latest revision as of 08:43, 8 October 2025


Sikkim National People's Party
AbbreviationSNPP
PresidentBiraj Adhikari > Delay Namgyal Barfungpa
FounderBiraj Adhikari
Founded10 October 2008 (17 years ago) (2008-10-10)
Dissolved22 March 2022 (4 years ago) (2022-03-22)
Merged intoSikkim Krantikari Morcha
HeadquartersGangtok, Sikkim, India.
IdeologyLocalism
ColoursWhite  and Red 
ECI StatusRegistered-Unrecognized State Party (Sikkim) (2019–22)[1]
AllianceSikkim Progressive Alliance (2019)

The Sikkim National People's Party (SNPP) was a regional political party (State Party (Unrecognized)) in the Indian state of Sikkim. The election symbol of the party was a pen nib. SNPP didn't have any relationship with Sikkim National Party (SNP) in same state or National People's Party (NPP) in the state of Meghalaya.

History[edit | edit source]

Pre-SNPP history[edit | edit source]

Biraj Adhikari and Delay Namgyal Barfungpa were members of the Sikkim Pradesh Congress Committee (SPCC, Sikkim branch of Indian National Congress (INC)) which was led by Nar Bahadur Bhandari. In 2004, as the candidates of INC, Adhikari contested the sole Lok Sabha seat from Sikkim,[2] Barfungpa contested the Sikkim Legislative seat from Rumtek Constituency.[3] Both were defeated by candidates of the ruling party Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF).

In May 2006, because of discontent with Bhandari's leadership, Biraji Adhikari seceded from SPCC.[4] He joined Sikkim Himali Rajya Parishad (SHRP) as the spokesperson of it.[5] Meanwhile, there is not much information on the movement of Delay Namgyal Barfungpa from 2004 to 2008, but he also seceded from SPCC at some point.

Establishment of SNPP[edit | edit source]

On 10 October 2008, Adhikari seceded from SHRP, and established the new party, Sikkim National People's Party (SNPP) for fighting with SDF. Adhikari was elected to the president, Tseten Dorjee Lepcha was elected as the working president, and Delay Namgyal Barfungpa was elected to the treasurer.[6]

In the Sikkim Legislative Assembly election of 2009, Adhikari contested from 2 constituencies (Rhenock and Chujachen), Tseten Dorjee Lepcha contested from Djongu constituency and Barfungpa contested from Gangtok constituency. SNPP formed the electoral alliance, United Sikkimese Alliance (USA) with Sikkim Jan-Ekta Party (SJEP).[7] With the exception of SJEP, SNPP didn't affiliate with SPCC or other opposition parties.

However, SNPP couldn't be registered in the List of Political Parties of Election Commission of India (ECI) before the election period,[8] so they had to run as independent candidates. As a result, they received 6.26% votes (Tseten Dorjee Lepcha in Djongu) or less in each constituency.[9]

Secession of Adhikari[edit | edit source]

Delay Namgyal Barfungpa was promoted to the vice president of SNPP at some point from 2009 to 2012. In the Sikkim Legislative Assembly election of 2014 SNPP didn't contest and appealed to voters to be politically conscious, pointing out the "None of the Above" (NOTA) option.[10]

In January 2018 SNPP announced that it would contest the Sikkim Legislative Assembly Election 2019.[11] However, in August 2018 Adhikari resigned from the president and seceded from SNPP. He transferred to Hamro Sikkim Party (HSP) which is led by Bhaichung Bhutia, and Adhikari was appointed to the spokesperson of the party.[12] Barfungpa didn't follow Adhikari, and Barfungpa was elected to the SNPP president by party members.[13]

Barfungpa’s leaderships[edit | edit source]

In March 2019 SNPP participated in the election alliance, Sikkim Progressive Alliance (SPA) which was formed by Sikkim Sangram Parishad (SSP), Sikkim Rajya Manch Party (SRMP) and Sikkim United Front Party (SUFP).[14] SPA sent 8 candidates for 2019 Sikkim Legislative Assembly election, 1 candidate for 2019 Sikkim Lok Sabah election, and 3 of 9 were SNPP candidates.[15]

But SNPP had not been registered in the List of Political Parties of ECI by the election date.[16] Barfungpa and another 2 SNPP candidates had to run as independent candidates, again. Barfungpa received only 97 votes (1.31%, 4th position of 6 candidates) in Gangtok constituency.[17]

Before the October same year By-Election of Sikkim Legislative Assembly (3 constituencies), the candidate of HSP from Gangtok constituency, Bhaichung Bhutia proposed a pre-poll alliance to Barfungpa, but Barfungpa didn't accept it.[18] SNPP was planning to participate in this By-Election, and sent only Barfungpa to contest from Gangtok constituency as an independent candidate for a third time.

Just at that time, SNPP had finally been registered to the List of the Political Parties of ECI as the State Party (Unrecognized) on September 25, 2019.[1] As the result, this was the first and final election that SNPP could contest by using its own party's name.

In this By-Election from Gangtok constituency, the candidate of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Yong Tshering Lepcha was elected by 2,508 (40.88%) votes. At the same time, Barfungpa became a runner-up candidate by 1,498 (24.42%) votes, and he could refund his deposit of candidacy.[19]

SNPP merged into SKM[edit | edit source]

In March 2022 Delay Namgyal Barfungpa joined the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) and merged SNPP with SKM. SNPP executive members and party supporters also officially merged with it.[20]

Ideology and political positions[edit | edit source]

SNPP advocated the safeguarding of interests of Sikkimese people and the special status for the state of Sikkim. It insisted that the protection of the Constitution of India's Article 371F[21] and the reintroduction of the Sikkim Tax Manual.[22] SNPP demanded that Government of Sikkim has to provide free electricity & medicines for the people of Sikkim.[23]

SNPP also demanded that the Nepali seats in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly should be reinstated. At the same time, it opposed the merger of Darjeeling hills with Sikkim.[23]

In December 2012 Delay Namgyal Barfungpa petitioned the Supreme Court with corruption allegations against the ruling political party (1994-2019) SDF Government.[24] In May 2019 Barfungpa attended the swearing-in ceremony for the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang (P.S. Golay) who is the president of Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM). Conversely, the former Chief Minister and president of SDF, Pawan Kumar Chamling had boycotted it.[25] In the by-election 2019 Barfungpa criticized that the BJP-SKM alliance is a kind of backdoor politics.[18]

Electoral records[edit | edit source]

Sikkim Legislative Assembly election
Year Total Seats Seats Contested Seats Won Forfeited Deposits % Votes Contested Source
2019 (by-election) 3 1 0 0 24.42 [26]

Presidents[edit | edit source]

Organisation[edit | edit source]

  • SNPP Youth

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 "Amending notification regarding political parties and their election symbols dated 25.09.2019". Election Commission of India (ECI). 2019. Retrieved 31 October 2019. SNPP was registered in this list with No.2463.
  2. ↑ "STATISTICAL REPORT ON GENERAL ELECTIONS, 2004 TO THE 14th LOK SABHA VOLUME III". ECI. 2004. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  3. ↑ "STATISTICAL REPORT ON GENERAL ELECTION, 2004 TO THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF SIKKIM". ECI. 2004. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  4. ↑ "Seven from Sikkim quit Congress". The Telegraph. 28 May 2006. Retrieved 20 November 2019.
  5. ↑ "SHRP demands white paper on rights of Limboo-Tamang". oneindia. 17 February 2008. Retrieved 28 November 2019.
  6. ↑ "State government and central government should protect our right: Biraj Adhikari". prabinkhaling.blogspot. 28 March 2009. Retrieved 21 November 2019.
  7. ↑ "SNPP, SJP forms 'United Sikkimese Alliance'". prabinkhaling.blogspot. 2 April 2009. Retrieved 21 November 2019.
  8. ↑ "Political Parties And Election Symbols as on 14-03-2009". ECI. 14 March 2009. Retrieved 1 November 2019. Meanwhile, SJEP could be registered in this List as the No. 894.
  9. ↑ "STATISTICAL REPORT ON GENERAL ELECTION, 2009 TO THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF SIKKIM". ECI. 2009. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  10. ↑ "SNPP appeals voters to be politically conscious, points out NOTA option". Sikkim NOW!. 26 March 2014. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  11. ↑ "SNPP to contest 2019 Sikkim assembly polls". Business Standard. 29 January 2018. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  12. ↑ "K.N. Upreti & Biraj Adhikari joins Hamro Sikkim Party". Sikkim Express. 6 August 2018. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  13. ↑ "Delay Namgyal is new SNPP president". Sikkim Express. 13 August 2018. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  14. ↑ "Four Parties form Sikkim Progressive Alliance". United News of India. 14 March 2019. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  15. ↑ "SPA Announces 9 Candidates Including Lok Sabha Candidate". The Voice of Sikkim (TVOS). 17 March 2019. Retrieved 22 November 2019. However, on the eve of this election, SSP withdrew its candidate, Tara Battarai in Upper Tadong.
  16. ↑ "POLITICAL PARTIES AND ELECTION SYMBOLS". ECI. 1 April 2019. Retrieved 1 November 2019.
  17. ↑ "Gangtok Election Result 2019 LIVE COUNTING". Firstpost. 27 May 2019. Archived from the original on 7 June 2019. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 "Delay Namgyal critical of BJP entry plan in Sikkim". Sikkim Express. 19 October 2019. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  19. ↑ "Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang wins from Poklok Kamrang seat, BJP bags two seats". Economic Times. 24 October 2019. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  20. ↑ "DELAY NAMGYAL'S SNPP MERGES WITH SKM". Sikkim Express. 23 March 2022. Retrieved 17 November 2022.
  21. ↑ "No match for Sikkim's victorious regional parties since 1979". The Times of India. 3 April 2019. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  22. ↑ "Sikkim party wants old tax law back". The Telegraph. 27 March 2018. Retrieved 31 October 2019. In 2008, Sikkim Tax Manual had been repealed by the introduction of the Income-tax Act, 1961.
  23. ↑ 23.0 23.1 "SNPP demands free electricity & medicines, says SDF failed to deliver basic facilities". the northeast today. 8 December 2018. Retrieved 8 November 2019.
  24. ↑ "Delay Namgyal petitions Supreme Court with corruption allegations against CM and State Govt". Sikkim NOW!. 27 January 2012. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  25. ↑ "PS Golay takes oath as Sikkim's 6th CM". Sikkim Express. 28 March 2019. Retrieved 31 October 2019.
  26. ↑ "Final result of Gangtok bye-poll". Sikkim Express (Facebook). 25 October 2019. Retrieved 22 November 2019.

External links[edit | edit source]

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