Darjeeling MP Raju Bista demands justice after youth's death in mining mishap

A young man died while working at a mining site in Dakshin Chenga Busty under Chenga-Panighatta Gram Panchayat at the site run by Excel Movers.

Siddharth, the son of Dipendra Ghataraj, was reportedly engaged in daily labour at the mining company when the accident took place. According to local residents, the company had been carrying out mining operations beyond the legal limits. They alleged that despite several complaints being submitted to the Block Development Officer (BDO) and the Block Land and Land Reforms Officer (BL&LRO), no steps were taken by the authorities to check the violations.

Member of Parliament from Darjeeling and BJP National Spokesperson, Raju Bista, expressed grief over the loss of the young man. In a press release issued on June 24, Bista said he was “deeply saddened” to hear about the incident. He further said that he had written to the concerned authorities and demanded them to take serious action.

“I have been informed by the local people that Excel Movers was violating mining norms by excavating more than what was permitted. These concerns were reportedly raised with the BDO and BL&LRO, but no action was taken,” Bista said.

The MP demanded the administration to immediately investigate the matter and ensure justice for the family of the deceased. He said the company should be held responsible if found guilty of violating mining laws and safety rules. He also demanded that the victim’s family be given proper compensation for their irreparable loss.