BJP Sikkim extends sympathy and support amid North Sikkim tragedies

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Sikkim unit, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragedies caused by heavy rainfall and landslides in North Sikkim. In a statement issued on Monday, the party conveyed its condolences to the families of those affected and assured its continued support to the people of the region during this difficult time.

One of the most tragic incidents occurred on the Chungthang-Lachen highway, where a tourist vehicle carrying 10 visitors and a driver fell into the fast-flowing Teesta River due to landslide-triggered road damage. Out of the eleven onboard, only two people have been rescued so far and are being treated at STNM Hospital in Gangtok. The remaining nine are still missing. Rescue operations are being carried out with great effort by the Indian Army, Sikkim Police, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). BJP Sikkim praised the dedication of these rescue teams and said they are praying for the safe return of those still missing.

Adding to the distress, a massive landslide on June 1 hit an Indian Army camp at Chaten in North Sikkim. The slide, caused by continuous rainfall, took the lives of three army personnel. Four others were injured and are receiving treatment, while six are still unaccounted for. BJP Sikkim offered its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased soldiers, saluted their sacrifice, and hoped for a quick recovery for the injured. Search and rescue operations are still ongoing.

The recent spell of heavy rain, including cloudbursts, has caused significant damage across North Sikkim. Important roads and bridges have been destroyed, and the swelling Teesta River has cut off access to several parts of the district. This has made travel extremely difficult for both locals and tourists. The BJP statement acknowledged the hard work of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), especially its Project Swastik team, which has been working day and night to restore road connectivity and clear debris.

BJP Sikkim also appreciated the quick response of the state government in launching evacuations and rescue operations. They praised the coordination among state officials and central agencies to safely move stranded tourists and ensure timely help for those in need.

In addition, the party expressed its gratitude to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his swift response and assurance of central government assistance. BJP Sikkim said this timely support would help the state in its relief and recovery efforts.

Speaking on behalf of the party, Niren Bhandari, Media Incharge of BJP Sikkim, said, “Our thoughts are with every family affected by this tragedy. We stand with the people of North Sikkim and are committed to supporting all relief work. We urge everyone to stay safe, follow the instructions of authorities, and support each other during this hard time.”