Gangtok: Former Sikkim Minister Ram Chandra Poudyal, popular as R C Poudyal, a legendary figure in state politics, has gone missing under mysterious circumstances.
Last seen leaving his Chota Singtam residence at 9 am on Wednesday on a planned visit to his sister-in-law in Setipool, Poudyal assured his family he would return by 2 pm, but he has not been seen since.
Poudyal’s unexplained absence has caused growing alarm among his family. Despite contacting numerous relatives and friends, no one has been able to provide any clues regarding his whereabouts.
Desperate for answers, his family filed a missing person report at the Pakyong Police Station, urging an immediate search effort.
Described as wearing traditional kurta pajamas on the day he disappeared, Poudyal’s sudden absence has left both his family and the community in a state of distress. In an emotional plea, his family has reached out to the public, asking for any information that could help locate him.
Local authorities have launched an investigation but have yet to uncover any significant leads. Friends, family, and supporters of Poudyal are clinging to hope, stressing the vital role of community assistance in ensuring his safe return.
Poudyal became a member of Sikkim’s State Council representing Losing Pacheykhani constituency in 1974 before the state became part of India.
After the merger with the Indian Union in 1975, State Council became the Legislative Assembly with Poudyal becoming the Deputy Speaker and later Forest Minister.
In 1970s he served as President of Sikkim Congress (Revolutionary) party and later in the 1980s as the President of Rising Sun Party.
Update: In a crucial development, the Pakyong District Police has escalated its efforts in the search for the missing former Minister, Ram Chandra Poudyal, aged 80.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Karma Gyamtso Bhutia announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the mysterious disappearance of Poudyal.
“A dedicated police team from Pakyong has been dispatched to Siliguri to pursue vital leads. Authorities are committed to exhaustive efforts to locate Poudyal and ensure his safe return,” the police said.
(Nitesh R Pradhan is a journalist based in Sikkim, India. He is currently correspondent of RT India and Editor of The Voice of Sikkim.)
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