Rajnath assures Sikkim CM of security on NH-10

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Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday spoke to Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling and assured him of all support to ensure safety and security on National Highway-10 in the wake of the Gorkhaland stir in neighbouring West Bengal.

The Home Minister also assured the Chief Minister of ensuring availability of essential supplies to Sikkim.

"Spoke to the Sikkim Chief Minister regarding security in the state and areas neighbouring West Bengal. I assured him that the Centre will ensure safety and security of NH-10 and do everything possible to save the state's people from any misery," Rajnath Singh said in a series of tweet.

The national highway is Sikkim's only road link with the rest of the country. Last week, Sikkim-registered vehicles were vandalised in West Bengal during the ongoing Gorkhaland stir in the northern hills of West Bengal.

The incidents took place after Chamling supported the Gorkhaland demand.

During the conversation, Chamling apprised Rajnath Singh that Sikkim is facing an acute shortage of supplies, especially essential commodities like medicines, powder milk for babies, vegetables and petrol/diesel, due to closure of the national highway.

Rajnath Singh said he had directed Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi to coordinate with the West Bengal administration and ensure safety, security and smooth traffic on NH-10.

He also urged the West Bengal government to ensure that the road link to Sikkim remains open.

--IANS

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