Body of Kazi brought to Rumtek

Gangtok, Aug 1 (UNI) The mortal remains of the first Chief Minister of Sikkim Kazi Lhendup Dorji Khangserpa were brought to Sikkim today from his Kalimpong residence.

The body has been kept at the old monastery of Rumtek, East Sikkim, from where he began his monastic life.

Late Kazi, a forerunner in ushering democracy in Sikkim and instrumental in the state's merger with the Indian Union, had expired at his Kalimpong residence on July 28.

His body was received by a huge gathering at Rangpo, the gateway of Sikkim. Sikkim police offered a guard of honour to the body at Rangpo.

Hundreds of people, senior politicians and ministers had gathered along the route from Rango to Rumtek to offer their last respects to the late leader.

The funeral will take place on August 3 at Rumtek and the state government has declared a state holiday on the occasion.

Meanwhile, the state cabinet in its special meeting held on July 30 decided to install the statue of late Kazi Lhendup in font of Chintan Bhawan, Gangtok.

UNI