Dr. Chamling Meets Lepcha leaders on Dzongu IssueGangtok ,October 17: A delegation of representatives of various Lepcha Association on Dzongu led by L.S. Tamsang, the president of Indigenous Lepcha Tribal Association has met Chief minister Pawan Chamling for a meeting held yesterday at official residence of Chief Minister popularly known as Mintokgang, thus breaking the ice over the ongoing protests against the projects. The lepcha delegation submitted a Memorandum of demands over Dzongu issue which primarily sought government protection and preservation of Dzongu and traditions and customs of primitive lepcha tribe in Dzongu and state.
Many Lepcha leaders also put forward their observations on the contagious issue of the implementation of the mega hydroelectric power projects in North Sikkim, including those proposed in the Lepcha reserve of Dzongu. Sikkim chief minister Pawan Chamling during meeting said the sanctity of Dzongu has to be protected at any cost including at the cost of development. He assured that his government would not let anyone or anything cause harm to sentiments of lepcha people as regards to their holy place of Dzongu.
Chief Minister once again reflected upon the ongoing review of hydel projects in North Sikkim including Dzongu and State government would only take a specific stand after it gets a review report from designated committee on issue.All hydel projects have been already halted pending a review in north Sikkim.
The talks were held in a cordial and positive atmosphere between Sikkim Chief MinisterDr. Chamling and lepcha leaders .No other details of the meeting were forthcoming. The meet was attended by the Senior cabinet Ministers and senior government officials.
However, The Affected Citizens of Teesta has decided to continue with 118 days old indefinite relay hunger strike organised in front of BL Bhawan till an amicable solution is arrived at.
