In a grievous accident an army vehicle, reportedly a ferrying bus met an accident at Zema-3, near Lachung in North Sikkim. 16 Army men lost their lives while 4 are critical and have been airlifted to Bagdogra.
Speaking to Sikkim Chronicle ASP Thatal gave stock of the situation, “As of record 20 were in the ferrying bus, of which 16 army men are confirmed dead, and 4 have been airlifted via chopper to Bagdogra for treatment but they are very critical,” he said.
The tragic accident has stunned India, let alone Sikkim. In a nation that has nothing but utmost respect towards their jawans, the tragic news has struck a melancholic chord. Many leaders shared their condolences and expressed immense grief on the internet.
The President, Prime Minister, Defence Minister, and other Union Ministers along with present and former CMs of Sikkim all expressed their anguish on the tragedy that claimed 16 precious Indian Army lives. Lives that were dedicated to protect other Indian lives.
Here are what leaders expressed:
We are once again reminded of how much our country’s army sacrifices in their wholehearted service to the nation. While we sorrow deeply in the irreparable loss of these precious lives, we salute them for their incomparable service to the nation.
I convey my heartfelt condolences to their bereaved families. May the Almighty give them strength to go through their unexplainable shock and sorrow of losing their dear ones.
Pawan Chamling