BGPM Chief: Don't Panic Over Gorkhaland Chants, Focus on Polls
Anit Thapa Tells Supporters BJP's Lies Led to People Joining His Party
Darjeeling Polls Heat Up: BGPM's Thapa Urges Calm Amid Gorkhaland Cries, Eyes Groundwork for Victory
Mirik, West Bengal: As the buzz for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections intensifies in Darjeeling, Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM) chief Anit Thapa has issued a strategic call to his party leaders and supporters. His message? Don't get swayed by the renewed clamor for Gorkhaland from rival outfits, the focus is on delivering results and securing victory in the polls.
Speaking at a "mass joining" program in Mirik on Friday, Thapa acknowledged the resurgence of the Gorkhaland demand, with groups like Bimal Gurung's Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) and the Gorkhaland Activist Samuha (GAS) leading the charge. However, he urged his followers not to panic or be tempted by unrealistic promises.
"Do not get panicky just because some are talking about Gorkhaland," Thapa declared. "We are on the right track. We never lied about Gorkhaland. We are Gorkhas' sons, we need it, who doesn't? But there is no one (in Delhi) to give it right now. Maybe there will be a right time, right people."
This measured approach marks a contrast to the GJM's recent two-day dharna in Delhi and GAS's marches, both pushing for immediate statehood. Thapa, instead, highlighted the BGPM's track record of delivering practical results like winning Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) Sabha and panchayat polls. He further claimed over 2,000 new members, including disaffected panchayat members, joined the BGPM, citing their disillusionment with the BJP's "15 years of lies" and appreciation for the BGPM's "truthfulness."
The BJP, which held the Darjeeling seat for three terms since 2009, faces criticism for unfulfilled promises like the "permanent political solution" (PPS) for the region and granting tribal status to hill communities. While the BGPM is allied with the Trinamul Congress, which opposes Bengal's division, Thapa maintained a strategic ambiguity on aligning with them in the polls.
"We will make a decision that benefits the community and our people," he stated, emphasizing the BGPM's ability to fight for their rights.
Thapa also cautioned against making Gorkhaland an election issue, citing the past's violence and losses during similar agitations. He emphasized the BGPM's current focus on regaining control of panchayats and the School Service Commission (SSC) for the community's well-being.
Thapa's speech at Mirik signals a strategic shift for the BGPM in the upcoming elections. By focusing on tangible achievements and avoiding the emotional Gorkhaland issue, they aim to appeal to voters seeking stability and real-world progress. Whether this pragmatic approach will resonate with Darjeeling's electorate remains to be seen, but the upcoming polls promise to be a thrilling contest.
