BJP's DT Lepcha set to be elected unopposed to Rajya Sabha from Sikkim

Lepcha, a 66-year-old BJP leader, will be the second Rajya Sabha MP representing a national party from the state in 30 years, officials said

PTI & Agencies, 12 January 2024,GANGTOK: Senior BJP leader DT Lepcha is set to be elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Sikkim, as his nomination papers were found to be in order during scrutiny of documents, officials said here on Wednesday.

The scrutiny of nomination papers was held in the presence of the returning officer, additional returning officer, observer, and other authorized representatives, they said.

Lepcha, a 66-year-old BJP leader, will be the second Rajya Sabha MP representing a national party from the state in 30 years, officials said.

The Rajya Sabha seat in Sikkim witnessed a solitary contender as Dorjee Tshering Lepcha emerged as the only candidate filing nomination papers for the election. Following the scrutiny of his nomination papers, which were found to be in order, Lepcha was officially declared elected to the Upper House of Parliament.

Dorjee Tshering Lepcha’s seamless victory was sealed as he remained the sole nominee in the race for the Rajya Sabha seat from Sikkim. With no opposition in sight, the election process concluded with Lepcha receiving the certificate of his successful election from Returning Officer Lalit Kumar Gurung.

DT Lepcha boasts an impressive political journey, having served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Sikkim for five consecutive terms. His political acumen is further underscored by his three tenures as a minister in the state.

In a significant development today, Dorjee Tshering Lepcha, the Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) representing the Gnathang-Machong constituency, secured a seat in the Rajya Sabha from Sikkim, marking an uncontested victory. The Certificate of Election was formally issued to DT Lepcha by Lalit Kumar Gurung, the Returning Officer for the Biennial Elections. The process unfolded in the presence of Karma T Gyatso Bhutia, Assistant Returning Officer, and Ms Pema Lhaden Lama, Observer, at the office of the Returning Officer cum Secretary, Sikkim Legislative Assembly Secretariat.

This electoral triumph aligns with the provisions outlined in sub-section (2)/(3) of section 53 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, read in conjunction with sub-rule (1) of (11) of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961. Such uncontested victories are relatively rare in the realm of politics and often underscore a broad consensus or confidence in the candidate’s leadership.

DT Lepcha’s elevation to the Rajya Sabha is expected to bring a fresh perspective and dedicated representation for Sikkim on the national stage. The unopposed nature of this election reflects the trust and support garnered by Lepcha within his constituency, showcasing a unified front in favor of his candidacy.

The issuance of the Certificate of Election not only formalizes Lepcha’s position but also symbolizes a collective decision by the constituents of Gnathang-Machong. Lalit Kumar Gurung, as the Returning Officer, played a crucial role in overseeing the electoral process, ensuring its fairness and transparency.

Karma T Gyatso Bhutia, serving as the Assistant Returning Officer, and Ms Pema Lhaden Lama, the Observer, added an extra layer of credibility to the proceedings. Their presence underlines the adherence to democratic norms and the commitment to a free and fair electoral process.

As DT Lepcha assumes his role in the Rajya Sabha, the spotlight is now on the impact he will have on policymaking and representation for Sikkim. The uncontested nature of this victory implies a degree of consensus among political stakeholders, suggesting a collective belief in Lepcha’s ability to advocate effectively for the interests of the state.

Dorjee Tshering Lepcha’s election to the Rajya Sabha stands as a noteworthy event in Sikkim’s political landscape. The uncontested victory, supported by legal provisions, reflects a unified decision by the electorate, paving the way for effective representation and engagement in national affairs.