Sikkim family blames Domino’s for fatal accident that killed 43-year-old, demands closure of outlets

The death of 43-year-old Jigmee Chundi Bhutia, who passed away after a hit-and-run accident allegedly involving two Domino’s pizza delivery motorcycles in Gangtok, has now turned into a major public issue in Sikkim. The grieving family, relatives, and several residents have demanded strict action from the authorities and have called for a complete shutdown of all Domino’s Pizza outlets operating in the state. The incident has raised questions about road safety, responsibility of private companies, and the response given by corporate officials in accidents involving their delivery staff.

Bhutia, a resident of Gangtok, sustained severe injuries in an accident reported at Deorali on the night of December 2. According to family members, his motorcycle was hit by two fast-moving delivery bikes belonging to Domino’s. He was returning home when the collision took place. The family has said that the accident happened because the delivery riders were allegedly racing on the road in an attempt to reach their destinations faster. The victim was rushed for treatment but later succumbed to his injuries.

The emotional reaction from the family has turned into a wider public concern. Speaking to reporters, family members said that no clear response was given by the company representatives regarding support, responsibility, or the results of the ongoing investigation. They said that they waited for days after the accident, hoping that someone from the company would inform them about what steps would be taken, but so far no satisfactory communication has taken place.

The relatives said that they conducted the funeral only a day earlier, hoping that after the final rites someone would come forward. “It has already been six days. We finished the funeral yesterday, but even after that, nobody from the company came clearly and gave any assurance,” a family representative said. Family members also said that they had repeatedly asked about the post-mortem report and details from the police, but only verbal information has been shared so far.

The family said that Jigmee Bhutia was not only a family member but a respected person in their community. “He was like our own brother. He was a son of Sikkim. He has a mother, a wife, and a 15-year-old child. His wife does not have a job. The family will face serious financial difficulties, and nobody is taking responsibility,” said one of the relatives.

The emotional appeal from the family has touched many, as they questioned why there is no clear accountability when accidents involve company delivery staff on duty. The family also expressed sadness that people react only on social media and do not come forward when real help is needed. “People see it on Facebook and give likes, but when help is needed, nobody comes,” a family member said.

After days of waiting, the family members, along with residents, have announced that they will not allow Domino’s Pizza to operate in Sikkim anymore. “We do not want Domino’s here now. We Sikkimese people will not allow these shops to remain open. A son of Sikkim died. They should take responsibility and give justice,” the family said.

On Sunday, some senior company representatives arrived in Gangtok, but no clear statement was issued. According to the family, the representatives informed them that they would need more time and stated that “decisions will be taken later”, without giving any firm reply. Their lack of response has created more anger among the public.

Police sources informed the family that the post-mortem report is still not officially complete and only partial information has been shared verbally. The local police station has registered a case and an investigation is going on. The authorities are looking into the allegation that two Domino’s delivery riders were racing at the time of the accident.

Family members said that they met officers, asked for documents, and waited the whole day expecting clarification, but no confirmed report has yet been handed over to them in writing.

In the meantime, senior Domino’s executives, who arrived from outside the state, did not speak to the media. They were present for meetings linked to the case in Gangtok, but their silence has resulted in more questions from the public. The visiting officials reportedly told the family that company decisions would be discussed later and that no immediate announcement could be made.

Residents who gathered at the site of the meeting expressed their dissatisfaction and stated that only a serious response from the company could bring justice to the victim’s family. The lack of answers has now encouraged more voices demanding that all Domino’s outlets should be shut across Gangtok and possibly in other parts of the state.

What began as a family tragedy has now transformed into a public issue involving safety, employment concerns, and corporate accountability. Many people have pointed out that food delivery companies often encourage quick deliveries, which may create pressure on riders to speed. Residents have also raised concerns that such accidents could happen again if strict action is not taken.

Supporters of the grieving family have urged the state administration to take strict steps and ensure that such incidents are not repeated in the future. Several locals also said that a clear policy must be created regarding responsibility of commercial companies when their delivery vehicles cause accidents.

The family of late Jigmee Chundi Bhutia has requested immediate financial help from the company or authorities. They said that the victim’s wife will now have to take care of their young child alone and that the sudden loss has placed them in a very difficult situation. Family members stated that they are not asking for sympathy but seeking justice and assistance that is long-term and practical.