Sikkim’s first woman MLA Hemlata Chettri passes away

SE Report
GANGTOK: Sikkim’s first woman MLA Hemlata Chettri (Khatiwada) passed away at Siliguri on Tuesday. She was 65 years of age.
Late Chettri was elected to the Sikkim Legislative Assembly in the year 1974 from Geyzing constituency and was instrumental in the pro-democracy movement of 1973. Her husband Nar Bahadur Khatiwara is also a former MLA and senior advocate.
Chief Minister P.S. Golay condoled late Chettri’s demise terming her passing away a mournful day for Sikkim. “My heart goes out to their near and dear ones and prayers for the departed soul,” he said.
Former Chief Minister Pawan Chamling also expressed his anguish on the passing of Hemlata Chettri saying her contributions to Sikkim serve as an inspiration to the Sikkimese people and shall never be forgotten.
The Former Legislators’ Federation of Sikkim (FLFS) also expressed its condolence on the demise of late Hemlata Chhetri. Remembering her for being the first Sikkimese woman legislator, the federation in a statement said she was known to be practical and thoughtful, sincere, dedicated women and manage to resolve the issues concerning the common people on her grit and determination honestly. “Apart from being the distinction of being the first women of Sikkim Legislative Assembly she was known for her social work and sincere contribution for strengthening the women and child welfare in Sikkim,” said the FLFS.
The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF), State units of Congress and BJP parties have also expressed their condolence on the passing away of the former legislator.