Sikkim CM: Rape shames us

TT, Gangtok, May 17: Sikkim chief minister Pawan Chamling today said his state was "ashamed" that a tourist from Calcutta had been raped there, speaking out unequivocally on an issue that has often wrong-footed politicians, including Mamata Banerjee.

"The incident is not only shocking but has shamed us. Strong action must be taken against the perpetrator. Police must be more vigilant in curbing crimes in Sikkim. This kind of crime should not be repeated," Chamling, who also holds the home portfolio, said in Gangtok today.

The alleged rape of the 18-year-old on May 15 by a cabbie took place at a time Sikkim is full of tourists seeking to escape the heat in the plains. Sikkim attracts 7 lakh tourists a year, out of which over 60 per cent are from Bengal.

The Sikkim chief minister added: "Tourists are our guests and their safety and security should be our first priority."

In contrast, complaints of rape had evoked a sharp reaction from Mamata and landed her in controversy more than once. Mamata has struggled to live down her initial declaration - " sajano ghatana (concocted incident)" - after the Park Street rape complaint was reported.

In Sikkim, the accused cabbie, Prem Rai, has been remanded in jail for seven days.

Transport minister D.T. Lepcha said he had directed the department to permanently cancel the driving licence of the driver.

The Gangtok Local Taxi Drivers' Association said: "It is because of them (the tourists) that we earn our livelihood. Such an incident would only bring a bad name to cab drivers."

The Travel Agents' Association of Sikkim appealed to tourists to book cabs only through registered tour operators.