Elections – Amit Shah Promises Resolution to Gorkha Issue in Six Months
Elections – Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday stated that if the Bharatiya Janata Party comes to power in West Bengal, it will work to resolve long-standing concerns of the Gorkha community within six months. Speaking at a public gathering in Kurseong in Darjeeling district, Shah accused the ruling Trinamool Congress of neglecting the interests of the region’s people and assured voters that a BJP-led government would prioritise a lasting settlement.
Commitment to Address Gorkha Concerns
During his address, Shah emphasised that the BJP understands the expectations and challenges faced by the Gorkha population. He said the party would aim to reach a solution that aligns with the community’s aspirations and ensures stability in the hill region. According to him, the objective would be to create conditions where people can live without uncertainty and with a sense of dignity.
He also assured that individuals linked to the Gorkhaland movement would receive relief, including the withdrawal of cases filed against them. This, he said, would be part of broader efforts to build trust and address grievances that have persisted over several decades.
Criticism of Previous Governments
Shah criticised both the Congress and the Trinamool Congress, alleging that neither had taken meaningful steps to resolve the issue. He said that despite the importance of the Darjeeling hills and the contribution of the Gorkha community, successive governments had failed to engage sincerely with their demands.
He further claimed that attempts made by the central government to initiate dialogue had not received adequate cooperation from the state administration. Referring to meetings he had convened earlier, Shah said that the absence of state representatives had slowed progress, eventually leading to the appointment of an interlocutor to continue discussions.
Promise of a Time-Bound Solution
Reiterating his assurance, Shah told the gathering that a BJP government would act swiftly after coming to power. He stressed that the party would work within a defined timeframe to bring clarity to the issue and ensure that the outcome reflects the wishes of the Gorkha people.
The demand for Gorkhaland, which calls for a separate state within India, has remained a central political issue in the Darjeeling hills for many years. It reflects the aspirations of people in the region who seek administrative autonomy and recognition of their identity.
Electoral Roll Concerns Raised
In addition to addressing the broader political issue, Shah also raised concerns about the deletion of some Gorkha names from electoral rolls during a recent revision exercise. He assured that such discrepancies would be corrected if the BJP forms the government, adding that all eligible voters should have their names included without exception.
Sharp Political Messaging
The speech also included criticism of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her party. Shah framed the upcoming election as an opportunity for change in the state, urging voters to consider issues such as law and order and public safety. He said that a new government would focus on ensuring justice and accountability, particularly in cases involving crimes against women.
As the election campaign continues, the Gorkha issue remains a significant factor in the Darjeeling region. Political parties are expected to intensify their outreach efforts, with promises and policy proposals aimed at addressing long-standing concerns of the hill communities.