List of Former Chief Ministers of Sikkim (1974-2024)

Sikkim, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, has a political history as diverse as its picturesque landscapes. Since its merger with India in 1974, the state has seen a succession of leaders steering its political course. Here, we delve into the annals of Sikkim’s political past, chronicling the former Chief Ministers who have shaped its journey from the mid-20th century to the present day.

Chief Ministers of Sikkim

Over the span of five decades starting from 1974, Sikkim has seen five Chief Ministers hailing from different political affiliations. Kazi Lhendup Dorjee initiated this series in May 1975 representing the INC Party, while the current Chief Minister, Prem Singh Tamang, assumed office in May 2019 from the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha Party. Pawan Kumar Chamling, of the Sikkim Democratic Front, holds the distinction of being the longest-serving Chief Minister, having governed from 1994 to 2019. Sikkim has also witnessed two instances of President’s rule amidst the dominance of major ruling parties such as the Sikkim Democratic Front, Sikkim Sangram Parishad, and INC.

Inaugural Chief Minister of Sikkim

Kazi Lhendup Dorjee, an Indian statesman, held the distinction of being Sikkim’s premier Chief Minister from 1975 to 1979, post its merger with India. As the inaugural leader during this transformative period, Dorjee skillfully steered Sikkim through the intricate dynamics of its newfound relationship with the Indian Union. His tenure epitomized a crucial juncture in Sikkim’s history, marked by the navigation of political intricacies and the forging of a new identity within the larger Indian framework.

Current Chief Minister of Sikkim

Prem Singh Tamang, popularly known as P. S. Golay, is an Indian politician and ex-educator, presently holding office as the 6th Chief Minister of Sikkim since 2019. He founded and leads the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha, spearheading a new political narrative in the region. Golay’s tenure reflects a blend of administrative experience and grassroots activism, aimed at driving progressive change and addressing the diverse needs of Sikkim’s populace.

Longest Serving Chief Minister of Sikkim

Pawan Kumar Chamling, representing the Sikkim Democratic Front, holds the notable title of the longest-serving Chief Minister, leading from 1994 to 2019. His enduring tenure epitomizes a period of stability and development in Sikkim’s political landscape. Chamling’s leadership legacy is marked by socio-economic progress, infrastructural advancements, and a deep commitment to the welfare of Sikkim’s citizens, establishing him as a pivotal figure in the state’s history.

Shortest Serving Chief Minister of Sikkim

Bhim Bahadur Gurung, the third Chief Minister of Sikkim, had the briefest tenure in the state’s history, serving from May 11 to May 24, 1984. Despite his short term, Gurung’s leadership briefly shaped Sikkim’s trajectory. His legacy underscores the challenges and dynamics of governance within the region, highlighting the importance of stability and continuity in Sikkim’s political landscape.

List of Former Chief Ministers of Sikkim (1974-2024)

Over the span of five decades starting from 1974, Sikkim has seen five Chief Ministers hailing from different political affiliations. Here is the complete list of former Chief Ministers of Sikkim from 1974 to 2024:

Former Chief Ministers of Sikkim
S. No.	Name	From	To
1.	Kazi Lhendup Dorjee	16 May 1975	18 Aug 1979
2.	President’s Rule	18 Aug 1979	18 Oct 1979
3.	Nar Bahadur Bhandari	18 Oct 1979	11 May 1984
4.	B. B. Gurung	11 May 1984	25 May 1984
5.	President’s Rule	25 May 1984	08 Mar 1985
6.	Nar Bahadur Bhandari	08 Mar 1985	30 Nov 1989
7.	Nar Bahadur Bhandari	30 Nov 1989	17 Jun 1994
8.	Sanchaman Limboo	17 Jun 1994	12 Dec 1994
9.	Pawan Kumar Chamling	12 Dec 1994	01 Oct 1999
10.	Pawan Kumar Chamling	01 Oct 1999	21 May 2004
11.	Pawan Kumar Chamling	21 May 2004	20 May 2009
12.	Pawan Kumar Chamling	20 May 2009	21 May 2014
13.	Pawan Kumar Chamling	21 May 2014	27 May 2019
14.	Prem Singh Tamang	27 May 2019	Incumbent