Shillong, June 21: The National Gorkhaland Committee (NGC) had a virtual meeting on 20.06.2021 with Dr. Mahendra P. Lama as an invitee to discuss the proposal of a Peoples Forum for a Permanent Political Solution suggested.
During the meeting the NGC carried out extensive interaction with Dr. Lama enquiring about a number of issues related to the people forum. After detailed deliberations it was agreed that for a PF to succeed it has to be a non-electoral political, well represented body that must lead the movement.
It has also been agreed that all communities in the hills must be advised to oppose the possible formation of GTA-3 or a similar body with powers which may be thrust upon by the State Government as such an arrangement in the past has failed miserably to fulfil the aspirations of the people. At the same time, it can also be resorted to by the State Government to scuttle the efforts of formation of a PF.
Following the discussions Dr. Lama, while assuring his full cooperation, has requested the NGC to initiate the process of setting up the PF and to lead it, for which the NGC has agreed. To make it a success the NGC seeks support of the Gorkha community across India and all other communities of Darjeeling Hills, Terai and Dooars.
In order to expedite the demand for a separate state and its achievement the unity and solidarity of all stakeholders is essential. The NGC requests all political parties of the proposed state, eminent citizens and institutions representing different stakeholders like Tea, Tourism, Education, Cultural, Natural resources like Forest, Water, and other social organisations etc to participate in the PF and work together in this endeavour, Lt. General, Shakti Gurung (Retd), Chairman, NGC in the press statement issued to the media today.
