The ruling SKM maintained that opposition SDF is shooting its gun from the shoulders of Bhaichung Bhutia for political gains over the new Namchi hospital project controversy. “The SDF is an expert in political stunts and now is trying to gain political mileage by supporting Bhaichung Bhutia. The SKM values Bhaichung as an icon of Sikkim at international level and can proudly say that Bhaichung brought recognition for Sikkim,” said Shital Rai, secretary, publicity wing of SKM.
Earlier on June 9, Bhaichung Bhutia‘s effigy was burned in the heart of Namchi at Central Park Square in South Sikkim. A video circulating on social media shows a few women in groups during the effigy burning with the former Indian football captain’s photo in it. The effigy was kicked around with calls of ‘Bhaichung Bhutia Murdabad.’
Reportedly, the protest comes days after Bhaichung Bhutia opposed the construction of a 300-bed hospital in Namchi, South Sikkim. Bhutia claimed that the construction of the new hospital would compromise the famous ‘veterinary ground’, considered the only playground in Namchi.
