The Centre has taken a significant step towards finding a permanent political solution to the long-pending Gorkha issues in the Darjeeling hills of West Bengal. The decision was taken after a meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
The meeting, held in Sukna, was attended by Gorkha representatives, political leaders, representatives of the West Bengal government and other stakeholders. Discussions focused on the community's demands for political and constitutional recognition, identity and a long-term administrative solution.
Panel Led by Pankaj Kumar Singh
The Centre has constituted a committee headed by Pankaj Kumar Singh, former Deputy National Security Adviser and the Centre's current interlocutor on the issue.
The committee will work towards finalising the proposed agreement and determining the modalities required for implementing a permanent political solution for the Gorkha community within the constitutional framework of India.
Solution Within Constitutional Framework
Amit Shah assured representatives that the Centre would work towards a permanent solution within the Constitution. He also said that other concerns raised by the Gorkha community would be examined sympathetically.
The Centre is also expected to provide necessary financial support for addressing pending developmental and administrative issues in the hill region.
A Long-Standing Demand
The demand for greater political and administrative recognition for the Gorkha community in Darjeeling and adjoining hill areas has continued for decades.
Previous arrangements, including the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council (DGHC) and later the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), were created to address regional concerns. However, a permanent settlement has remained elusive.
The formation of the latest committee is expected to give fresh momentum to discussions on resolving the long-standing issue.
