Sikkim Flash Flood: Missing Odia Jawan Confirmed Martyr; Over 100 Still Missing

Gangtok: Odia soldier Saroj Kumar Das, who had gone missing along with 22 other Army personnel after a flash flood in the Teesta River of Lachen Valley caused by a sudden cloud burst over Lhonak Lake in North Sikkim, has been confirmed as a martyr, according to family sources.

Saroj Kumar Das, a resident of Kendudhipa in Dhenkanal district, was part of the Army team reported missing in the tragic incident. His family received the devastating news through a video call where they identified his body. Saroj had visited his family just two months prior, making his death a shock to his loved ones.

Despite the immense sacrifice made by Saroj in service to the nation, the family expressed disappointment that neither the state government nor the district administration had reached out to offer support or condolences. They even had to initiate contact with the Army themselves.

It’s worth noting that the cloudburst has claimed at least 14 lives, with 102 people still missing. The Defence Ministry is actively conducting search and rescue operations, although intermittent rain and thunderstorms are posing challenges.

In response to the situation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has communicated with Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, ensuring full support for the ongoing efforts to address the disaster.