Sikkimese general election, 1967

General elections were held in Sikkim in March 1967, having been due earlier but postponed after a state of emergency was declared following the Sino-Indian War.[1] The Sikkim National Congress emerged as the largest single party, winning eight of the 24 seats.[1] Although the Sikkim National Party won only five seats, its parliamentary faction was joined by the three Tsong, Sangha and scheduled caste members.[1]

Electoral system

The State Council had established in 1953 by the Chogyal.[2] It originally had 18 members, of which 12 were elected and six (including the President) appointed by the Chogyal.[2] Of the 12 elected members, six were for the Nepali community and six for the Lepcha and the Bhutia communities.[2] For the 1958 elections the number of seats was increased to 20 by adding one seat for the Sangha and an additional appointed member.[2] In 1966 a further four seats had been added; one each for the Nepali and Lepcha/Bhutia communities, together with one for the Tsong and a scheduled caste seat.[1]

Candidates for election to the Council had to be at least 30 years old, whilst the voting age was set at 21.[1]

Results

Party Votes % Seats +/–
Sikkim National Congress 8New
Sikkim National Party 5–1
Sikkim State Congress 2–5
Others 3+3
Appointed members6–1
Invalid/blank votes
Total 24+4
Source: Hamlet Bareh

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 Hamlet Bareh (2001) Encyclopaedia of North-East India: Sikkim Mittal Publications, p17
  2. 1 2 3 4 Bareh, p16
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