A dispute between local taxi drivers and Indian Army personnel in North Sikkim has escalated into a major controversy after videos allegedly showing a confrontation went viral on social media. The incident, which occurred near Lachung's popular Zero Point tourist destination, has led to competing allegations from drivers' organisations and the Army, with both sides seeking official intervention.
The controversy has also drawn political attention, with several organisations demanding an impartial probe into the circumstances that led to the clash.
Drivers allege assault after medical emergency
According to the All Sikkim Voice of Chauffeurs Association, the confrontation began after a child travelling in a tourist vehicle reportedly fell ill while returning from Zero Point. The association claimed that the driver sought passage through traffic due to the medical emergency and requested cooperation from vehicles ahead.
According to NDTV, the drivers' body alleged that four local drivers were later assaulted near a barricade close to the Shiv Mandir area. Videos circulating online appear to show a man being beaten by multiple uniformed personnel, though the complete sequence of events remains unclear.
The association condemned the alleged use of force and argued that any dispute involving drivers should be resolved through legal channels rather than physical confrontation. It also expressed concern over what it described as a growing pattern of mistreatment faced by drivers in the region.
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Army disputes allegations and presents different account
According to NDTV, the Indian Army has strongly rejected the allegations and offered a contrasting version of events. According to the Army, heavy tourist traffic at Zero Point had created congestion, affecting the movement of an operational convoy carrying essential supplies.
Army officials said a taxi driver had parked improperly, blocking movement. Personnel allegedly requested the driver to move the vehicle, but he refused. The Army further claimed that several drivers then physically confronted troops by pushing and grabbing them.
According to the statement, convoy officials managed to calm the situation and continue their journey. However, Army personnel later stopped the drivers near Shiv Mandir to record their identities and pursue a formal complaint.
The Army also alleged that one of the drivers was intoxicated and became abusive, leading to a further altercation. The claim regarding intoxication has not been independently verified.
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Calls grow for independent inquiry
According to NDTV, the incident has sparked reactions across Sikkim, with multiple social and political organisations demanding transparency. The Driver Welfare Council of the Citizen Action Party-Sikkim, the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha's drivers' wing and the Sarathi Welfare Board have all called for a fair investigation.
The Army has confirmed that it will file a formal complaint with local police, while drivers' groups are also pursuing legal action. With viral videos continuing to circulate and conflicting narratives emerging from both sides, authorities are now under pressure to establish the facts and determine accountability.
