Sonakshi Sarkar

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has restored vital road connectivity to Lachung in Sikkim’s Mangan district, paving the way for the evacuation of nearly 1,500 stranded tourists from Lachung and Lachen starting Monday, officials confirmed. Following heavy rains and a sudden cloudburst on May 30, extensive damage was inflicted across North Sikkim’s key tourist routes, including landslides, breaches, and damaged bridges. The affected roads—Lachung-Chungthang-Shipgyere-Sanklang-Dikchu and others—were left impassable, trapping hundreds of tourists. BRO teams cleared landslides, repaired damaged stretches, and restored one-way vehicular passage near the suspension bridge at Phidang, ensuring safe transit for rescue operations. Two bailey bridges on…

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, voicing serious concern over a recent ascent of Mount Khangchendzonga by a team from the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), reportedly from the Nepal side. In his letter, CM Tamang termed the act a “violation of sacred traditions and legal protections,” underscoring that Mount Khangchendzonga is not just a mountain but a revered deity in Sikkimese culture. “The mountain is not just a peak—it is a living deity,” the chief minister wrote, reflecting the public outrage the incident has triggered. Tamang reminded…

The Sikkim unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has commended the state police for their vigorous crackdown on the drug menace in Namchi district, lauding their relentless efforts in curbing substance abuse and dismantling local drug networks. In a statement, the party appreciated the police’s proactive role in enforcement, awareness campaigns, and community outreach, which it said have already begun yielding visible results in improving public safety. The BJP noted that these initiatives have not only disrupted drug peddling operations but also contributed to increased awareness about drug-related harms, particularly among the youth. “The dedication and resolve shown by…

The Sikkim Bhutia Lepcha Apex Committee (SIBLAC) has sharply criticised the Indian Army’s recent expedition to Mount Khangchen Dzongna, a peak regarded as sacred by the indigenous Bhutia and Lepcha communities. The group said the climb violates long-standing religious sentiments and state directives that prohibit expeditions on the holy mountain. Mount Khangchen Dzongna is not only Sikkim’s highest peak but is considered a Guardian Deity by local communities. In recognition of its spiritual significance, the Sikkim government has imposed an official ban on climbing the mountain. SIBLAC expressed deep anguish over the army’s actions and called for accountability from the…