A tragic accident occurred in Sikkim when a tourist vehicle carrying 11 passengers plunged nearly 1,000 feet into the Teesta River, resulting in two deaths and nine individuals still missing. Among the missing is Itishree Jena, a BJP leader from Jajpur, Odisha, who was traveling with her family. According to Korei MLA Akash Das Nayak, Itishree’s son and nephew were safely rescued and are receiving treatment, though they remain in critical condition.
The group, consisting of 11 family members from Jajpur, was traveling in two vehicles when one skidded off a hilly road between Chungthang and Munshithang on Thursday evening. Rescue operations are underway, involving the Indian Army, ITBP, Sikkim Police, and local volunteers, but challenging terrain is hindering efforts.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over the incident and has coordinated with the Sikkim government to ensure prompt rescue and medical care for the victims. He has also dispatched a special team from Odisha to assist in the rescue operations and facilitate the safe return of the affected passengers.
