Gnathang Machong MLA and Advisor to the Social Welfare Department, Mrs. Pamin Lepcha, conducted an extensive official visit to Tsomgo Village today, focusing on reviewing public infrastructure, environmental initiatives, and strengthening community engagement. She was accompanied by Pakyong District Zilla Adhakshya Mrs. Laden Lhamu Bhutia, Zilla Panchayat Member Mr. Lakpa Tshering Tamang, DFO Gangtok (T) Mrs Smita Shilal, DFO Pakyong (T) Mr Sonam Pintso Bhutia, RO Kyongnosla (T) Mr Krishna Chandra Dahal, SHO Sherathang Mr Yogen Gurung, personnel from the Indian Army (Trishakti Corps), officers from the Forest and Police Departments, members of the Tsomgo Pokhri Sanrakshan Samiti, and local residents.

The visit began in Chipshu Village, where the MLA inspected the Primary Health Centre and the newly constructed 100-bedded hospital, which is currently non-functional. She instructed officials to expedite the installation of essential medical equipment and ensure operational readiness before the upcoming Mansarovar Yatra. Staffing and emergency preparedness were also emphasized.

In a significant green initiative, a plantation drive was organized under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign of the Forest and Environment Department. The MLA, alongside officials and villagers, planted saplings to raise awareness about environmental conservation. She also led the implementation of the “Mero Rukh Mero Santati” scheme, conceptualized by Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang, by distributing certificates and saplings to families with newborns, linking personal celebrations with ecological responsibility.

Mrs. Lepcha later inaugurated the “I Love Tsomgo” selfie point near Tsomgo Lake, developed in collaboration with the Forest Department and Tsomgo Pokhri Sanrakshan Samiti, aimed at promoting eco-tourism.

The MLA visited the Tsomgo Ropeway and Shopping Complex, interacting with local vendors and shopkeepers. She took note of grievances related to water, infrastructure, and waste management and assured prompt follow-up with relevant authorities.

The day-long visit underscored MLA Pamin Lepcha’s commitment to inclusive governance, grassroots development, and sustainable practices, reinforcing collaboration between the government and local communities for long-term growth.

Three girls from Sikkim, who had initially claimed to be employed at a hotel in Rangpo, were found to have been victims of human trafficking in Siliguri.

The rescue operation was led by Bindu Sharma the director of the Global Human Rights Peace Foundation, an NGO based in Siliguri. On June 4, the organization formally handed over the rescued girls to the Sikkim Police in the presence of their families.

Upon receiving the alert, the Global Human Rights Peace Foundation, in collaboration with SDPO Soreng, successfully established the girls’ identities and confirmed that they were originally from Sikkim. A rescue team led by DIGP and Dy.SP of AHTU, along with police personnel, traveled to Siliguri and formally took custody of the girls with support from the local NGO Global Human Rights Peace Foundation. They were brought back to Gangtok the same day.

The girls have been admitted to the “One Stop Centre” at Lumsey, Tadong, where they are receiving medical attention, psychological counseling, and shelter. The Child Welfare Committee (CWC) has been informed, and all legal formalities for reintegration are being followed.

Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine how the girls were trafficked and exploited. The incident underscores growing concerns over human trafficking and the urgent need for stronger protective measures for vulnerable individuals in the region.

A celebratory event marking Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) maiden IPL title win turned tragic as a massive stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium claimed 11 lives and left over 50 injured. 

The incident occurred when an estimated 2–3 lakh fans gathered to celebrate RCB’s victory over Punjab Kings. The stadium, with a capacity of 35,000, was overwhelmed by the crowd, leading to chaos and a deadly crush.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced a magisterial inquiry into the incident and declared a compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased. He stated, “I don’t want to defend this incident. Our government will not do politics on this. I have ordered a magisterial inquiry and given 15 days’ time.” 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing the mishap as “absolutely heartrending.” He added, “In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that those who are injured have a speedy recovery.”

The injured have been admitted to Bowring and Lady Curzon Hospital, with several in critical condition. Police used mild force to manage the crowd and prevent further chaos. 

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Devajit Saikia commented on the incident, stating, “It is very unfortunate. This is a negative side of popularity. People are crazy for their cricketers. The organisers should have planned it better.”

The tragedy has cast a shadow over RCB’s historic achievement, prompting discussions on crowd management and public safety during large-scale events.