Gangtok, Aug 07: Sikkim’s picturesque landscape and vibrant culture were marred by unrest as a peaceful rally demanding justice for student leader Padam Gurung turned violent in Namchi town on August 7.
The rally, attended by people from diverse backgrounds, sought answers regarding the mysterious death of the 21-year-old student and President of the Students Representative Council (SRC) at Namchi Government College. As tensions escalated, the police resorted to lathi-charges and tear gas to disperse the agitated crowd, prompting authorities to impose Section 144 in the town.
The incident that sparked the rally took place on June 27 when Padam Gurung’s lifeless body was discovered in the Kazitar area of Sikkim. His death raised questions and concerns among the people, who demanded a thorough investigation to ascertain the truth and bring the culprits to justice.
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As days turned into weeks and weeks into months, the lack of significant progress from the administration in resolving the case led to growing frustrations within the community.
After 40 days of uncertainty, the public’s demand for justice reached its peak, and a mass rally was organized in Namchi. The demonstration was not limited to any specific group; it saw participation from civil society members, political parties, and concerned citizens who united with a common goal – seeking justice for Padam Gurung.
During the rally, echoes of “Justice for Late Padam Gurung” reverberated through the streets, with passionate cries for accountability and answers from the authorities. Various political figures and social activists, including Bhaichung Bhutia from the Hamro Sikkim party, Tshering Wangdi Lepcha from the SDF party, and Passang Sherap, added their voices to the call for justice, lending support to the cause.
While the rally began with peaceful intentions, tensions rose during the initial phase when protestors and the police clashed over the rally’s route and permissions. The situation escalated further when some protestors resorted to pelting stones at the police, prompting law enforcement to respond with lathi charges and tear gas to disperse the crowd.
In response to the escalating violence, authorities made the decision to impose Section 144 in Namchi town. This section of the Code of Criminal Procedure prohibits the assembly of more than four people in an area and was enforced to maintain law and order during the unrest. The imposition of Section 144 served as a measure to curb any potential escalation of violence and to bring the situation under control.
In a region as culturally diverse as Sikkim, preserving harmony and traditions is crucial for overall well-being and progress. The incident in Namchi serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing grievances in a peaceful and constructive manner. While protests can be powerful tools for expressing concerns and seeking justice, violence only exacerbates the situation, hindering the process of resolving disputes.
To ensure justice is served and trust is restored in the administration, there is an urgent need for transparent investigations into Padam Gurung’s death. Thorough and impartial inquiries can help provide closure to his family and the community, dispel rumors, and bring to light any wrongdoings.
As the dust settles in Namchi after the violent rally, the focus must remain on finding answers and delivering justice for Padam Gurung. Sikkim’s cultural richness and beauty can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and unity.
The incident in Namchi serves as a reminder that resolving disputes and preserving traditions non-confrontationally is essential for the overall well-being and progress of the region. It is hoped that the authorities will take prompt actions to address the public’s concerns and restore calm in the region, allowing the people of Sikkim to move forward in harmony.
