Gangtok, July 17, 2024 – Ram Chandra Poudyal, an influential figure in Sikkim’s political landscape, was found dead in Bangladesh on July 16. The 80-year-old leader had been missing since July 7.
Details of the Incident
Poudyal, last seen leaving his home in Chota Singtam near Gangtok, was reportedly on his way to visit his sister. When he did not return, his family reported him missing. A special investigation team from the Pakyong District Police was mobilized. The identification of his body, discovered 8 km inside Bangladesh, was confirmed by a watch he was wearing, according to the Pakyong Superintendent of Police. Initial investigations indicate he may have been swept away by the Teesta River.
Political Career and Contributions
Poudyal played a significant role in Sikkim’s democratic movement in the 1970s. He was instrumental in opposing the Chogyal regime, which led to Sikkim’s integration into India. Notably, he held a seven-day hunger strike that significantly boosted public support for the movement.
He founded the Sikkim Congress (Revolutionary) and served as its President from 1979 to 1981. Earlier, in 1973, he established the Jhulkey Gham (Rising Sun) Party and led it through the 1970s and 1980s. Poudyal was elected to the first democratic Sikkim Legislative Assembly in 1975, representing the Loosing Pacheykhani constituency. He served as Deputy Speaker from 1975 to 1977 and as Forest Minister from 1977 to 1979.
Legacy and Legal Battles
Despite several unsuccessful election attempts in later years, Poudyal remained a key political figure. He is well-known for the landmark case R.C. Poudyal vs. Union of India (1993), where he challenged reservation policies in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly. The Supreme Court upheld the reservations, recognizing Sikkim’s unique historical and cultural context.
Community Reaction and Funeral
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Golay expressed his condolences, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the sudden demise of Late R.C. Poudyal, a statesman and distinguished senior political leader who had served the Sikkim Government in various capacities, including as a Cabinet Minister, and was the leader of the Jhulke Gham Party.”
Gangtokian Web Team, 17/07/24