Bhubaneswar, May 31: A tragic accident in Sikkim has left the Odisha community in distress, as four tourists from Jajpur’s Byasanagar, including BJP leader Itishree Jena, remain missing.

The incident occurred when a tourist vehicle plunged nearly 1,000 feet into the Teesta River between Chungthang and Munshithang.

Among the missing are Itishree Jena, her elder son, her brother, and sister-in-law. Meanwhile, two minors—her younger son and nephew—were rescued in critical condition and are currently undergoing treatment.

The accident has shaken the local community, prompting prayers and mass candle-light vigils at the Shiva Temple in Khandinipur.

Odisha’s Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena expressed concern over the rescue challenges, citing heavy rainfall and landslides as major obstacles. A special rescue team from Odisha has been dispatched to coordinate relief efforts and ensure the safe return of the missing individuals.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has personally spoken with Sikkim authorities, urging swift action to locate the missing tourists. The Odisha government has deployed senior officials to oversee the rescue operations and provide necessary assistance.

As the search continues, families and BJP workers remain hopeful, praying for the safe return of their loved ones. The tragedy has sparked discussions on tourist safety measures in hilly terrains, with authorities emphasizing the need for stricter regulations to prevent such incidents in the future.

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