IFS officers nationwide are deeply concerned by the apparent lack of government action regarding the suspected murder of Chief Conservator of Forest (CCF), Mr. N Luikham, in Meghalaya. What exacerbates the situation is the attempt to portray the blatant murder as a case of suicide.
The IFS Association (Central Unit) has formally communicated its demand for a CBI investigation into the incident, which occurred over two weeks ago, to both the Union Home Secretary and the Chief Secretary of Meghalaya. Despite these efforts, there has been no significant response from either the state government or the central authorities.
Indian Masterminds spoke to IFS officer Dr. K Sasikumar, the Chief Conservator of Forest, Tripura, who knew Mr. Luikham from their foundational course. He shared insights into his acquaintance with Mr. Luikham, stemming from their time together during the foundational course. He reminisced about a memorable trek they undertook together during their training.
THE TREK
The Rupin Trek was brutal, the toughest the academy offered. But we weren’t just a group of trekkers, we were a team, forged by the challenges of the Himalayas and the leadership of Lui. They called him “Tiger” – a leader who could be anything the situation demanded: strong and brave, nurturing and protective, a friend by your side.
During the Rupin Pass trek, Mr. Luikham guided us through the tough terrain, always leading the way and making sure everyone was okay. He knew when to stand where. He knew who needed him the most and when. He was there for each one of us, whenever we wanted him for whatever the reason. He was like a machine! A duty bound machine in flesh and bone!
One night, we got lost and had to gather in a big open space. It was scary with little food, strong winds, and freezing cold. But Mr. Luikham stayed strong, like a father figure, and made sure the women in our group were safe.
His strength, both mental and physical, was awe-inspiring throughout the Rupin Trek. He shouldered responsibility with a maturity and kindness that touched everyone. Even after the trek, the memory of him lingered. The Leader, a hero straight out of a storybook, a hero forged in the fires of the Rupin Trek.
Lui, my Tiger… our Tiger… left us…So early!
Tiger…
Rest in Peace!
