CM Suvendu Adhikari hands over aid, jobs to families of 11 workers killed in Sikkim tunnel collapse

PTI, July 27, 2026, Jalpaiguri: Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday handed over financial assistance to the families of the 11 migrant workers from the state who were killed in the recent tunnel collapse in Sikkim's Namchi district and announced government jobs for members of nine bereaved families.

Speaking to reporters here after meeting the families at the Jalpaiguri District Magistrate's office, Adhikari said each of the 11 affected families will get a total ex gratia of Rs 21 lakh.

"Today we have extended financial assistance to all the families of the deceased workers. Members of nine families will be given government jobs. Seven of them have been appointed as home guards, and two will be recruited as civic volunteers. We stand firmly with these families in their hour of grief," Adhikari told reporters here.

The Chief Minister personally handed over appointment letters and the state government's financial assistance to family members of the victims, many of whom had travelled from Malbazar and other parts of North Bengal. 

He also interacted with the parents, spouses and siblings of the deceased workers.

"This is not an act of charity; it is our responsibility. The State Government is providing Rs 5 lakh to each bereaved family from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. The Sikkim government has already given Rs 4 lakh each. The public sector company involved in the project is paying compensation of Rs 5 lakh per family, while the private contractor executing the work is also providing Rs 5 lakh each. The Prime Minister has announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for each of the deceased," Adhikari said.

Eleven workers from the state were killed after a portion of an under-construction tunnel collapsed in Namchi last week. Nine of the victims were residents of Malbazar in Jalpaiguri district. Their bodies were recovered after prolonged rescue operations in difficult terrain.

Adhikari said the state government had remained in touch with the Sikkim government immediately after the accident and had offered all possible assistance, including helicopters if required, to support the rescue efforts.

Appealing to migrant workers to return to the state, the Chief Minister said the government was ready to provide employment and welfare support.

"I appeal to migrant workers to come back home. The state government is prepared to provide employment opportunities. Those who return can obtain fresh job cards and avail themselves of 125 days of work. Free ration is being provided by the Centre, Ayushman Bharat is available, and those not covered under it will receive benefits under the Chief Minister's Health Insurance Scheme. We will ensure that they do not face any hardship after returning," Adhikari said.