The opposition Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) has submitted a memorandum to Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, urging a CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) probe into the assault on former state assembly Speaker K.N. Rai and SDF spokesperson S.K. Timshina. The victims were attacked by unidentified individuals in Melli town, Namchi district, on March 1.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the pace of the ongoing Sikkim Police investigation, SDF president Pawan Kumar Chamling emphasized the need to uncover the mastermind behind the attack on Mr. Rai. While six individuals have been arrested in connection with the assault, the police have not shown inclination to identify the mastermind, according to Chamling.
Mr. Rai’s critical condition has led to his transfer to a hospital in Delhi for treatment. In response to the incident, the SDF is calling for the imposition of central rule in Sikkim by invoking Article 371(F) (G), citing a collapse in law and order that compromises the possibility of a free and fair poll in the state. Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya has assured the SDF delegation of necessary action in response to their demands.
