Amit Shah Pledges 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 channels 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 several 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 political rally in Gangarampur, located in South Dinajpur district, Shah directly addressed the Gorkha community. "I assure my Gorkha brothers and sisters in Darjeeling that once the BJP assumes power, we will not only establish an eco-adventure hub in the Hills but also resolve the Gorkha issue constitutionally, ensuring Bengal remains united," he asserted.
Earlier in the day, during a media interaction, Shah explicitly clarified that the formation of Gorkhaland is not on the BJP's agenda. He also launched a sharp critique against what he termed the 'tukde tukde gang', accusing them of attempting to fragment Bengal by exploiting the strategic Siliguri Corridor.
BJP's Electoral Promises and Political Alliances
The BJP's manifesto for the 2026 Bengal assembly elections includes significant commitments aimed at addressing regional aspirations. It promises official recognition of the Gorkha identity and the inclusion of the Rajbanshi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. In a strategic move, the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha, led by Bimal Gurung, has offered unconditional support to BJP candidates in the key hill constituencies of Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Kalimpong. This alliance is driven by the pursuit of a "permanent political solution" for the region.
Comprehensive Development Blueprint for North Bengal
During his series of three rallies across Bengal on Tuesday, Shah unveiled an ambitious development agenda specifically tailored for north Bengal. The proposed initiatives include:
- Establishment of four industrial parks to boost economic growth.
- Construction of a semiconductor manufacturing factory to enhance technological infrastructure.
- Development of four industrial townships to create employment opportunities.
- Commencement of work on an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) facility within two months of forming a government.
- Setting up a 600-bed specialized cancer hospital to improve healthcare access.
- Granting land ownership rights to tea garden workers, addressing long-standing socio-economic concerns.
Political Accusations and Broader Statements
Shah did not hesitate to criticize the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), alleging widespread corruption. "When the central government allocated Rs 100 crore for flood relief, TMC members embezzled the entire amount. We will hold them accountable for every single penny they have misappropriated," he charged.
He further accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of using the expulsion of Humayun Kabir as a political maneuver. "She expelled Kabir merely to deceive the public. They are attempting to construct a Babri Masjid through Kabir, but no such structure will be allowed in Bengal," Shah stated, referencing contentious religious symbolism.
On a national note, Shah reiterated the BJP's support for women's reservation, posting on social media platform X that the proposed bill represents "the need of the hour" for gender equality in political representation.
