Gangtok/Kolkata: The alleged rape of an 18-year-old city girl in north Sikkim on Sunday has cast a shadow over one the favourite holiday spots of Kolkatans. Even as those who have visited Sikkim are dismayed at the loss of a "safe haven", the travel industry is worried over the fallout.
Sikkim CM Pawan Chamling was quick to address the issue on Tuesday: "I am disturbed by the news of a rape on a tourist from Kolkata. The incident is not only shocking, it has shamed us. Strong action must be taken against the perpetrator. Police must be more vigilant. This kind of crime should not be repeated."
The rape allegedly took place along the north district highway at Phodong, about 25 km from Gangtok. The survivor, holidaying in Sikkim with two friends, hired a cab for sightseeing when the driver allegedly sexually assaulted her. The accused, Prem Rai (22), has been arrested.
More than shock, travellers from Kolkatans were saddened. Private firm executive Parbati Guha Niyogi who visited Sikkim three years ago recalled it as the "best vacation ever". "I have fond memories, not just of the idyllic locations and gentle people but the assuredness and freedom I felt as a woman. Sadly, visitors will now be wary," she said.
But Salt Lake resident Aditi De, who lives in Delhi, is still firm in her belief that Sikkim is one of the safest places in India. "It is unfair to paint the entire state black. Sure, tourists will be cautious, but the pleasant people will not turn demons overnight," she said.
Tour operators in Kolkata voice De's sentiment. "We have never heard of law-and-order problem. The rape is a stray case," said Asok Sinha, Kolkata office in-charge of Geetanjali Tours and Travels. The Travel Agents Association of Sikkim said the incident had shamed everyone. "The culprit has brought disgrace not only to his family but to the entire state," said TAAS vice-president Barap Namgyal Bhutia.
Phodong IC Tom Tshering Lepcha said the three girls recorded their statements on Tuesday and would leave for Kolkata on Wednesday.
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