Sikkim chief minister PS Tamang (Golay) on Friday decided to relinquish the Soreng-Chakung Assembly constituency, a day after his wife Krishna Kumari Rai had vacated the Namchi-Singithang segment.

Golay had won from two Sikkim Assembly constituencies — Soreng-Chakung and Rhenock constituencies — in the recent elections.

“As per the Conduct of Election Rules 1961, under section 67/A, a rule mandates that one of the two constituencies must be relinquished within 14 days of the election result declarations. Tomorrow, 15th June , marks the last day for this decision. Thus, with a heavy heart I must make this crucial announcement, today,” said Golay.

While apologising to the people of Soreng-Chakung for vacating the seat, he promised to ensure that the constituency benefitted from the service and care of “two dedicated MLAs, including myself”.

Golay announced his decision to quit the Soreng-Chakung constituency a day after his wife Krishna Kumari Rai had resigned as the MLA of Namchi-Singithang.

Krishna Kumari’s decision had taken Sikkim by surprise.

Golay said his wife had vacated the seat “in alignment with the unanimous decision of the party, prioritising its welfare and objectives”. “It is important to note that, at the request of the parliamentary committee of the SKM party, she contested in the elections for the welfare of our party.”

With byelections set for Soreng-Chakung and Namchi-Singithang, there are indications that Golay’s son Aditya will be fielded from the seat he had quit.

Aditya had won the Soreng-Chakung seat in 2019. Soreng is the native place of the Golays.

“The decision by Krishna Kumari to resign aligns with talks that Aditya will be fielded from his old seat by the SKM. Having father, mother and son in the Assembly would not send a positive message,” said a political observer in Sikkim.