Sevoke, West Bengal | August 27, 2025 — The mysterious disappearance of 14-year-old Ishan Gurung has sparked public outrage and a widespread search across districts after he was allegedly kidnapped near NH-10 in the 10th Mile area of Sevoke on August 23.
Eyewitness Details a Sudden Abduction
According to Sobit Tamang, who was present at the scene, the incident occurred between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m., when Ishan was attempting to cross the road to meet friends. As he did, a Maruti van with unidentified occupants approached, and within moments, the boy was forcibly taken away.
“We were fishing near the drain along the road. Ishan saw his friends across and asked me to go with him. Suddenly, a van came and grabbed him. It was too quick, and I couldn’t stop them,” Tamang recalled.
Following the incident, Ishan’s family filed a missing person and kidnapping case at the Sevoke Police Outpost. Since then, the case has drawn widespread attention and concern from both locals and officials.
No Leads Yet, Public Frustration Grows
Despite ongoing efforts by the police, including CCTV footage reviews and an expanded search operation across Siliguri, Damdim, Malbazar, Rangpo, and Kalimpong, authorities have yet to make a breakthrough. This lack of progress has led to growing frustration in the local community.
On Monday, residents staged a roadblock on NH-10 in protest. The blockade was lifted after police promised swift action, but on Tuesday, the family and local leaders issued a 12-hour ultimatum, warning of further protests if no progress is made.
MP Raju Bista Calls for SIT, Raises Human Trafficking Concerns
The case has reached national political attention. Darjeeling MP Raju Bista has written a formal letter to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, urging immediate and high-level intervention.
In his letter, Bista called the incident a serious law and order failure, stressing that a child abduction in broad daylight on a national highway demands urgent action. He requested the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and emphasized the need to investigate possible human trafficking or organized crime links.
Ongoing Search and Call for Public Help
Multiple police teams are currently working on the ground, collecting leads and speaking to locals. Authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activity or information that may assist in locating Ishan.
The case continues to grip the region, with hopes pinned on swift justice and the safe return of the missing boy.
If you have any information, please contact your nearest police station or the Sevoke Police Outpost immediately.
