Politics · India Bureau
Centre establishes panel to chart permanent political solution for Gorkhas
Following high-level talks in New Delhi, the Union government has set up a committee to draft an agreement outlining a constitutional framework to address longstanding demands of Gorkha communities in Darjeeling and surrounding regions.
LSN India ·
The Union Home Ministry announced the formation of a dedicated committee on Saturday after a significant tripartite meeting convened by Home Minister Amit Shah brought together representatives of Gorkha organisations and the West Bengal government to negotiate a lasting political settlement.
The committee has been tasked with finalising the modalities and drafting a formal agreement that would address core demands raised by hill communities, particularly recognition of their distinct identity and constitutional status within India's political framework.
According to an official statement from the Ministry of Home Affairs, discussions covered the full spectrum of issues affecting the hill population of West Bengal, with particular emphasis on securing a permanent political solution under the constitutional umbrella. The Home Minister committed to expediting the resolution process.
The formation of the committee represents a significant step toward resolving disputes that have periodically disrupted life in the Darjeeling hills. The outcome of the committee's deliberations is expected to shape the contours of any future political arrangement for the region's predominantly Gorkha-speaking population.
The development follows the central government's earlier electoral commitments to secure a lasting political solution for Gorkha communities, marking a renewed phase of engagement between New Delhi and hill-based stakeholders.