By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: The Sikkim High Court has deferred hearing a petition challenging aspects of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, citing the pendency of similar proceedings before the Supreme Court.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque and Justice Bhaskar Raj Pradhan observed that it would be inappropriate for the High Court to adjudicate on the matter while the apex court is already examining related issues.
The bench suggested that the petitioner either move the Supreme Court directly or seek transfer of the case to the higher court. Consequently, the matter has been adjourned sine die.
Sources indicated that the petitioner is likely to approach the Supreme Court shortly. Consultations regarding the future legal strategy are currently underway, with a decision expected in the coming days.
The petition was filed as a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) by the Sikkimese Moolniwasi Suraksha Sangh, which has raised concerns over the manner in which the electoral roll revision is being conducted. The organisation has clarified that it is not seeking to halt the SIR exercise but wants safeguards to ensure transparency and fairness throughout the process.
Among its key demands, the petitioner has sought a review of the cut-off year being used to determine voter eligibility, arguing that the criteria warrant closer scrutiny in the context of Sikkim’s unique demographic and constitutional framework.
The PIL further contends that the issue has wider implications for the state due to the protections guaranteed under Article 371F of the Constitution. The organisation has urged judicial intervention to address concerns arising from the electoral revision exercise while safeguarding the interests of Sikkim‘s indigenous communities.