Amit Shah Commits to Constitutional Resolution for Gorkha Issue, Rules Out Bengal Division
Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared on Tuesday that the long-standing Gorkha issue will be addressed through constitutional means without partitioning West Bengal, provided the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secures office in the state. This statement marks a notable departure from the earlier stance of Bengal BJP leaders, who had historically advocated for the creation of a separate Gorkhaland state.
Shift in BJP's Position on Gorkhaland
Speaking at a rally in Gangarampur, South Dinajpur, Shah directly addressed the Gorkha community, stating, "I want to assure my Gorkha brothers in Darjeeling that once in office, BJP will not only develop an eco-adventure hub in the Hills but also resolve the Gorkha issue in a constitutional manner without dividing the state." Earlier in the day, during a media interaction, he explicitly clarified that the formation of Gorkhaland is not on the BJP's agenda, emphasizing a commitment to preserving Bengal's territorial integrity.
Political Alliances and Manifesto Promises
The BJP's manifesto for the 2026 Bengal assembly elections includes pledges to recognize the Gorkha identity and include the Rajbanshi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. In a significant political development, the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha, led by Bimal Gurung, has offered unconditional support to BJP candidates in Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Kalimpong. This alliance aims to achieve a "permanent political solution" for the Hills region, aligning with Shah's constitutional approach.
Development Vision for North Bengal
During his three rallies across Bengal, Shah outlined an ambitious development blueprint for north Bengal. Key proposals include:
- Establishing four industrial parks and four industrial townships to boost economic growth.
- Setting up a semiconductor factory to enhance technological infrastructure.
- Initiating work on an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) within two months of assuming power.
- Creating a 600-bed cancer hospital to improve healthcare access.
- Granting land ownership rights to tea garden workers, addressing long-standing socio-economic concerns.
Criticism of Trinamool Congress and Political Accusations
Shah launched a sharp attack on the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), accusing them of corruption. He alleged, "When the Centre sent Rs 100 crore for flood relief, Trinamool's men pocketed the entire money. We will make them accountable for every penny they have taken." Additionally, he criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the expulsion of Humayun Kabir, calling it a political maneuver. Shah asserted, "She expelled Kabir to deceive people. They are building the Babri Masjid through Kabir. No Babri Masjid can be made in Bengal," referencing contentious religious symbolism.
Support for Women's Reservation
Reiterating the BJP's commitment to gender equality, Shah posted on social media platform X that the proposed women's reservation bill is "the need of the hour." This endorsement aligns with the party's broader advocacy for increased female representation in political spheres.
The statements and promises made by Amit Shah highlight the BJP's strategic focus on resolving regional issues constitutionally while pushing for extensive development in Bengal, setting the stage for a heated political contest in the upcoming elections.
