Union Home Minister Amit Shah held a meeting in Siliguri with Gorkha leaders, assuring a constitutional resolution to their long-pending aspirations. A committee under interlocutor Pankaj Singh will be formed to examine the issue and propose a solution.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday held a meeting with Gorkha MPs, MLAs and prominent political leaders in Siliguri, along with the West Bengal Chief Minister, to discuss the long-pending aspirations and concerns of the Gorkha community and work towards a "just, dignified, and lasting resolution".
In a post on X, Shah said the meeting discussed the "long-pending aspirations and genuine concerns of the Gorkha people" and a practical roadmap forward. "Reiterated that under the leadership of PM Modi Ji, the government is firmly committed to addressing these issues. Further assured them that every possible effort will be made to address their legitimate aspirations within the framework of the Constitution," Shah said. He added that the government would work towards a solution that "honours the aspirations of the Gorkha community, safeguards their identity and ensures a better future".
Committee to Examine Gorkha Issue
Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) General Secretary Roshan Giri said a committee would be formed under the leadership of interlocutor Pankaj Singh to examine the issue and submit the next proposal to the Centre. "HM Amit Shah has clearly stated that any resolution to the issue will be a constitutional one. A committee will be formed under the leadership of interlocutor Pankaj Singh, which will submit the next proposal to the Government of India," Giri said.
'Process Has Now Begun'
BJP MP Harsh Vardhan Shringla said the meeting had paved the way for a positive outcome on the Gorkhaland issue. "The process of finding the solution we seek regarding the Gorkhaland issue has now begun. A committee is to be formed; he indicated that this committee would operate under the leadership of our Gorkhaland interlocutor, Pankaj, to examine the matter in detail," Shringla said.
He said no specific timeframe had been given as the process was at an initial stage. Shringla also stressed the importance of securing the Siliguri Corridor, saying, "There will be 100% security at the Siliguri Corridor, which is a very important issue."
Security Threats Discussed
BJP MP Khagen Murmu said discussions also focused on threats facing North Bengal, including concerns surrounding the "Chicken's Neck" corridor and attempts to separate North Bengal from the rest of the region.
Earlier in the day, Shah held a security meeting regarding the Siliguri Corridor. On Friday, Shah also joined Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel for 'Bada Khana' in Siliguri. He described the tradition as one in which jawans and officers share a meal, strengthening their bond and shared purpose. (ANI)
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