The opposition Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) led by five-time former chief minister Pawan Kumar Chamling is banking on ex-India footballer Bhaichung Bhutia's popularity and young candidates in most Assembly constituencies to return to power in the Himalayan state.
The SDF also wants to utilise the anti-incumbency factor against the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) and fear among local people that the special status of Sikkim under Article 371 (F) of the Constitution and its old laws will be diluted if either the SKM or BJP come to power in the northeastern state, to win votes.
Elections to the 32-member Sikkim Assembly and the lone Lok Sabha seat in the state will be held on April 19.
