27 Nov,2023
Buddhist clergy in Sikkim set aside traditional rituals to elect their representative to the distinctive 32 Sangha Assembly Constituency.
The 32 Sangha Assembly Constituency breaks the norm with no geographical boundaries, standing alone as the only one of its kind in the country, exclusively reserved for the Monastic Community (Sangha).
With a total of 2881 Sangha Voters, including both Monks and Anis (Nuns) from the state's 111 recognized monasteries, the Sangha electorate extends beyond a single constituency, spanning the four mountain districts of the state.
While sharing polling stations with Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies, Sangha Voters use a separate Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) to cast their votes, ensuring a unique electoral process.
The registration of Sangha voters is managed by the BLOS (Booth Level Officers) of the Polling Stations where Sangha Voters participate, emphasizing the distinctiveness of this electoral segment.
The 32 Sangha Constituency maintains an Electoral Roll solely dedicated to Sangha Voters, safeguarding their unique identity within the electoral system.
To maintain the purity of the Sangha seat, only registered Monks and Nuns are eligible to contest the election, with political parties putting forth their nominees from among the clergy.
The intersection of spiritual leadership and political representation takes center stage in Sikkim's Sangha Assembly Constituency, showcasing a harmonious coexistence of tradition and governance.