Girl killed as vehicle driven by former minister loses control

Gangtok, Mar 13 (UNI) A 15 year old girl died, while three others were injured when a former minister driving a car allegedly under the influence of alcohol, lost control and hit them at Jeewan Theeng Marg in Development Area this evening.

Yankee Lepcha(15), who sustained grievous injuries, died at Sir Thutob Namgyal Memorial hospital, while another local school teacher Sangay Doma Shenga (25) has been referred to Siliguri hospital with serious injuries. Yankee Lepcha, a resident of Namchi was visiting her relatives in Development Area when the incident occurred.

Sonam Choda Lepcha, a former minister and legislator, who represented the Dzongu constituency in North Sikkim, lost control at the steep incline next to the community hall at Jeewan Theeng marg, and his vehicle hit the four people.

The former minister also admitted to the hospital with injuries and has been referred to Siliguri hospital.

A case has been registered under the relevant sections, according to police.

Mr Lepcha, who has represented Dzongu for two terms, served as a minister in the Nar Bahadur Bhandari led Sikkim Sangram Parishad government.

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