Odisha BJP leader among six missing after tourist vehicle falls into Teesta River in Sikkim

Bhubaneswar, May 30: Odisha BJP Mahila Morcha State Secretary Iti Shree Jena is among six individuals from Odisha reported missing after a tragic accident in North Sikkim. A tourist vehicle, carrying 11 people including 10 tourists and a driver, plunged nearly 1,000 feet into the Teesta River along the Chungthang-Munsithang route around 8 PM on Thursday. The accident occurred amid challenging terrain and inclement weather, with the river reportedly in spate.

Iti Shree Jena, who hails from Jajpur, was travelling with her family when the mishap occurred. Her son and nephew were rescued, while she and others remain untraced. Two critically injured passengers have been airlifted to Gangtok after receiving first aid at Chungthang.

In response, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has dispatched a special team of officials to Sikkim to oversee rescue operations, ensure medical treatment for the injured, and coordinate the safe return of affected passengers. Majhi has also communicated with the Sikkim government regarding necessary support.

Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik expressed grief and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured, urging Lord Jagannath to grant strength to the bereaved families.