Sikkim Monks seeks scrapping of hydel project

GANGTOK, Sept 20 – A joint meeting of National Sikkimese Bhutia-Lepcha Organization with the Denjong Chyarig Chogpo (Buddhist religious outfit) has deliberated on the threat posed by the proposed 96 MW Lethang hydel power project in Yuksam.
The proposal to construct the mega power project in the Rathong Chu in Yuksam, West Sikkim is the most undesired project which has ignited immense threat to the sanctity of the Buddhist tradition of Sikkim, mentioned a release issued by the organisation. “We appreciate the Chief Minister’s scrapping of the earlier Rathong Chu project respecting the Buddhist tradition and its sanctity of Sikkim, the release added.

The release thanked SIBLAC for attending public hearing of September 16, 2010 to protest against the Lethang hydel project.

The release further requested the Chief Minister to take another decision of scrapping any such projects and activities in and around the sacred Rathong Chu which falls under Places of Worship (Special provision) Act 1991.

The organisations also reiterated their stand for a proportionate increase in the total number of the Bhutia-Lepcha seat in the Sikkim Assembly.