ACT hunger strike to be called off in Sikkim

Gangtok, July 26: Affected Citizens of Teesta(ACT), whose members are on an indefinite hunger strike since June 21 protesting against the mega power projects, offered to withdraw the strike if the state government notifies the review committee on the proposed projects in North Sikkim.

ACT made the offer during a meeting with the high level empowered committee of the state government headed by the Chief Secretary yesterday evening.

Based on the earlier resolutions adopted by the body, ACT chief coordinator Tseten Lepcha said the review committee must be notified immediately to enable them to lift the hunger strike.

Another representation made by ACT was that the review committee proposed by the government should be headed by an independent person well versed in social, religious, environmental and technical aspects of projects. ACT also stated that the review committee must have at least 50 per cent of ACT nominees. Six nominees were proposed by ACT.

Mr Lepcha categorically told the high powered committee that the moment the review committee is notified by the state government, the strike will be immediately lifted.

''Even if you notify it (review committee) right now, we will call off the hunger strike,'' Tseten Lepcha said to the Chief Secretary.

On his part, the Chief Secretary said the state government will consider the fresh ACT proposals with an expeditious approach and will get back to them soon. Regarding the proportion of the ACT representation in the review committee, the Chief Secretary said the committee should be well represented from all sections and it will take time as proper government process should be followed.

UNI