SC to examine allegations of corruption against Sikkim CM

New Delhi, Aug 14 (UNI) The Supreme Court today decided to examine allegations of corruption against Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Chamling, heading the government of Sikkim Sangram Parishad, a political party in the state.

A Bench comprising Chief Justice Y K Sabharwal and Mr Justice C K Thakker and Markandey Katju issued notices on a PIL filed by Kunga Nima Labcha , former special secretary home department, Sikkim and others seeking CBI enquiry against the state Chief Minister for allegedly amassing assets worth about Rs 15.38 crores through corrupt means by misusing his offical status as public servant.

The petitioners, who include local Congress leaders Maj (retd) Tshering Gyatso Bhutia, a member of the AICC, Pushpak Ram Subba, Advisor to Akhil Sikkim Kirat Limbo Chumlong Association and Bal Chand Sarda, Chairman of the Gangtok Municipal Corporation and also a MLA, have alleged in their petition that the chief minister is liable to be prosecuted under the prevention of corruption act as he has acquired various immovable properties having market value of about Rs1670 crores by awarding contract to his family members, relatives, friends and his supporters in violation of said rules and regulations. The corruption in the state administration is rampant.

According to the petitioners Chamling was a police constable in 1969 and was dismissed from service and went in hiding to Nepal when non bailable warrants were issued against him.

UNI AKS/SC KR RP KN1741