Gangtok: The body of R C Poudyal, a former minister of Sikkim, was discovered in a canal near Siliguri, West Bengal, nine days after he was reported missing, the police confirmed on Wednesday.


Poudyal, aged 80, was found floating in the Teesta Canal at Fulbari on Tuesday. 


"Initial investigations suggest that the body may have been carried downstream by the Teesta river. Identification was confirmed through his watch and clothing," a police official stated.


A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was set up to search for the veteran politician following his disappearance on July 7 from his residence in Chota Singtam, Pakyong district.


"The probe into the circumstances of his death will persist," the official added.


Poudyal served as the deputy speaker in Sikkim's inaugural assembly and later held the position of forest minister. He was a significant figure in the state's political scene during the late 1970s and 1980s, establishing the Rising Sun Party. Poudyal was also recognized for his deep knowledge of Sikkim's cultural and social issues.


Expressing his condolences, Chief Minister P S Tamang said, "I am deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Late Shri R C Poudyal Jyu, a statesman and esteemed senior political leader who served the Sikkim Government in various roles, including as a minister, and was the leader of the Jhulke Gham Party."