Arunachal Pradesh: BJP Extends Dominance
In a resounding display of electoral supremacy, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has triumphed in the recent Arunachal Pradesh Assembly elections, securing a remarkable third consecutive victory. The saffron party's unparalleled success has been solidified with an impressive tally of 42 seats, solidifying its leadership position in the state. Furthermore, the BJP holds a commanding lead in an additional four constituencies, poised to further extend its dominance.
The National People's Party (NPEP) has emerged as the second-largest party, securing two seats and maintaining a lead in one. The People's Party of Arunachal (PPA) has mirrored this performance, claiming two seats, while the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has won one and holds a lead in two. Independent candidates have made their mark, securing three seats in the assembly.
Sikkim: SKM Triumphs, SDF Falters
In the neighboring state of Sikkim, the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) has emerged victorious, securing a landslide win over its primary rival, the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF). The SKM has crossed the majority threshold, securing a resounding 23 of the 32 seats contested, leaving the SDF trailing in its wake. The Chief Minister and SKM leader, Prem Singh Tamang, has emerged as a political force, winning by a commanding margin of 7,044 votes in the Rhenock constituency and maintaining a strong lead in the Soreng-Chakung constituency.
The SDF, led by the veteran politician Pawan Kumar Chamling, has faltered in the face of SKM's dominance, securing only a single seat. The BJP and Congress, which also fielded candidates in Sikkim, have failed to make any significant inroads.
Leaders Prepare for Third Term
Both Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and his Sikkim counterpart Prem Singh Tamang are poised to embark on their third terms in office, underscoring the resounding trust and confidence placed in their leadership.
Celebrations and Rejoicing
Polls in both states were conducted on April 19, with Arunachal Pradesh recording a voter turnout of 82.95% and Sikkim registering an equally impressive 79.88% turnout. As the election results poured in, joyous celebrations erupted in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, with supporters of the victorious BJP and SKM taking to the streets to express their jubilation.
Sikkim: Key Contestants
The electoral battle in Sikkim was primarily contested between the incumbent SKM and the SDF. The BJP and Congress fielded candidates, but their presence remained relatively muted. Among the notable candidates were Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, his wife Krishna Kumari Rai, former Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling, former Indian footballer Bhaichung Bhutia, and BJP's Narendra Kumar Subba.
Arunachal Pradesh: Prominent Faces
In Arunachal Pradesh, the electoral contest centered around the BJP and Congress. The BJP fielded candidates in all 60 constituencies, while the Congress opted to contest only 19. Other key players included the National People's Party (NPEP) and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Prominent candidates contesting the election included Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Biyuram Wahge, Ninong Ering, Karikho Kri, Pani Taram, Kumar Wali, Kamlung Mosang, Wangki Lowang, and Jampa Thirnly Kunkhap.
Previous Elections and Exit Poll Predictions
In the previous Arunachal Pradesh Assembly election held in 2019, the BJP emerged victorious with 41 seats, followed by the Janata Dal (United) with seven, the NPP with five, the Congress with four, the PPA with one, and two Independent candidates.
Exit polls had accurately gauged the electoral pulse of the state, projecting a thumping victory for the BJP and the retention of power by the SKM in Sikkim. The poll results have served to validate these predictions, demonstrating the accuracy and precision in gauging public sentiment.
