GORKHALAND: THE DREAM LAND OF THE GORKHAS

We all say that the History repeats itself. The truth in this statement can be itself seen in the current political situation of Darjeeling. The demand for Gorkhaland, which is possible within the framework of the Constitution, is now, nothing new. Although evidence of the Gorkha communities’ demand to govern their own state has been found dating back as far as 1907, the 1st   true agitation for a separate state began in the mid-1980’s and was led by the GNLF with Subash Ghising at its helm. Even at the height of the agitation in 1986-87, it was non-communal and did not result in non-Nepali   people living in the hills being victimized. Finally, the GNLF settled by accepting the autonomous council i.e., DGHC. DGHC, became a convenient tool by which the Bengal government could forcefully rule the hills, following its usual policy of gross neglect, lack of concern and discrimination against   the hill people. Now, after 20 years passing by, a newly formed body has come into the action i.e. GJM(Gorkha Janmukti Morcha ) , led by Mr. Bimal Gurung at its helm, is that it    is non –violent and of course constitutional. No Communal riots have been taking place during the phases of this agitation. The hills have been subjected to step-motherly    kind of treatment by Bengal and as a result , the people living in the hills are not at all happy . For decades , emotions like despair, pain sorrow, had been steadily building up in the Gorkhas’   mind and finally under the leadership of GJM it overcame all odds and broke free, swallowing up the entire hill communities, with wave after wave of passion and determination.     “Gorkhas are hoping that their leaders have the courage , wisdom, and patience to live up to their exceptions and finally fulfill their aspiration for their identity, their homeland and their future …………….Gorkhaland.