BGPM Adopts Torchlight as New Electoral Emblem After Candle Omission
The Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM), led by Anit Thapa, has officially designated "torchlight" as its primary electoral symbol for the forthcoming assembly polls in Darjeeling. This decision comes in response to a significant setback on Tuesday when the party's initially preferred symbol, the 'candle', was conspicuously absent from the Election Commission's official list of available symbols. The BGPM, which is an ally of the Trinamool Congress, had to swiftly reassess its options to ensure compliance with electoral regulations.
Alternative Symbols and Nomination Filings
In addition to "torchlight", which serves as the party's first preference, the BGPM has also selected "binoculars" and "table" as alternate symbols to secure a viable emblem for the elections. The final allocation of symbols by the Election Commission is scheduled to be announced by April 7, adding an element of anticipation to the political landscape. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, key party members took proactive steps by filing their nomination papers: Amar Lama, the BGPM candidate for Kurseong, and Ruden Sada Lepcha, the Kalimpong MLA, submitted their documents. The party's Darjeeling candidate, Bijoy Kumar Rai, is set to complete his nomination filing on Thursday, marking a coordinated effort to solidify the BGPM's presence across the Hill constituencies.
Confidence Amid Symbol Change
Anit Thapa expressed unwavering confidence in the party's electoral prospects despite the symbol change. He stated, "We are confident of winning all three Hill seats. Although we are a registered party, our symbol was not in the EC's list. We had to move forward and choose another." This sentiment was echoed by Ruden Sada Lepcha, who downplayed the impact of the symbol alteration on the election outcome. Lepcha emphasized, "The symbol does not matter, ideology does. We have ensured peace and development in the Hills. We are confident of victory." These statements highlight the party's focus on its governance record and ideological appeal rather than symbolic representation.
The BGPM's strategic pivot to "torchlight" underscores its adaptability in the face of electoral challenges, as it aims to maintain momentum in the competitive political environment of Darjeeling. With nominations underway and symbol decisions pending, the party remains poised to contest the assembly polls with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.
