Sikkim Police cautions people with legal action against circulating un-verified audio video recordings in the social network/media

KalimNew, Gangtok, 7 July 2023:  Information circulated in the social media are misleading and not related to the death of Padam Gurung 27 June 2023, the deceased President of the Students Representative Council of Namchi Government College, claimed Sikkim Police. In a video press release and press statement the DIG (Range) Hari Chetrri and Dr Tshering Namgyal Gyatso the newly appointed SP Namchi briefed about the development in the investigation process made by Special investigation Team (SIT).

The release stated that with reference lo Namchi PS U.D Case No 22/2023 dated: 28 06.2023, wherein one Padam Gurung was found dead in the drain at Kazitar, South Sikkim. The deceased was reportedly swept away by high volume of water of the said drain due to heavy rainfall.

It added, in this regard, it is observed that one audio clip is being circulated in social media wherein a woman has claimed that on the relevant night of 27.06.2023, she had witnessed the deceased Padam Gurung being beaten up in front of the restaurant "Cross Roads", Namchi. The Special Investigating Team of Sikkim Police has examined the said women and some juvenile witnesses associated with the incident. 

Whereas the fact is revealed that the incident being discussed in the above said viral audio

pertains to another incident which has happened on the same night and in front of same restaurant.

In the CCTV footage, the deceased along with another person can be seen going downwards

reportedly in search of their vehicle keys while another group of people, who appear to be highly unstable are seen to be arguing and scuffling. 

It seems that the woman who is discussing an incident that took place on that particular night in front of the said restaurant. However, it has now been discovered that the incident being discussed in the audio pertains to a different event that occurred on the same night, but in front of the same restaurant. 

According to this new information, the deceased person and another individual were seen going downwards, presumably in search of their vehicle keys. The statements provided by witnesses have been compared with the CCTV footages and found to be inconsistent.

Based on the information provided, it is clarified that there has been confusion initially

regarding the incident being discussed in the viral audio. It's important to rely on verified facts and evidence, such as CCTV footage and statements from reliable witnesses, to establish an accurate understanding of the events that took place. 

Further investigation to gather more details and ascertain the complete picture of what occurred on that particular night is underway. As of now 31 witnesses have been examined and further, 8 more individuals have been identified, who could reveal vital information related to the instant case.

Press/Media and General Public are requested not to upload un-verified audio/video recording which may create confusion and distrust amongst the members of public.

It is hereby informed to all concerned that if there is any attempt to mislead the investigation

or bring discord in the community on the subject, it will be dealt seriously and perpetrators shall face legal action.

Sikkim police also added that during the investigation process the victim's family members and advocate were with them .