Centre revives Gorkha talks with new interlocutor
The Statesman | 18 October 2025The buzz follows the central government’s decision to appoint Pankaj Kumar Singh, retired IPS officer and former BSF Director General, as the official interlocutor to resume talks with Gorkha leaders from Darjeeling, Terai, and Dooars. Mr Singh, who also served as deputy National Security Advisor, has vast experience dealing with sensitive regions like Jammu & Kashmir and the northeast, where he earned a reputation for calm and trust-building leadership.
The announcement has sparked rare unanimity among the Hills’ diverse political voices.
Darjeeling MP Raju Bista hailed the move as a watershed moment: “For the first time in our region’s history, we have reached this stage without bloodshed or turmoil. This represents a significant victory for the people of our region. I have always believed that the road to a lasting political solution must be paved with dialogue and guided by peace. We are hopeful that all stakeholders, including the West Bengal government, will engage positively and help take the final step toward a permanent solution for our region.”
GNLF president Maan Ghising described the decision as a testament to the Centre’s sincerity. He said: “This historic step clearly reflects the Government of India’s sensitivity, commitment, and just approach towards the long-standing issues of the Gorkha people. With this initiative, all stakeholders will now have the opportunity to present their views constructively. We firmly believe this inclusive and consultative process will pave the way for a concrete, just, and permanent solution to the Gorkha community’s aspirations.”
GJMM chief Bimal Gurung, whose party has long spearheaded the movement for Gorkhaland and Scheduled Tribe status for 11 Gorkha sub-tribes, also welcomed the initiative: “Our party was formed to secure the political identity and rights of the Gorkha community. For nearly two decades, we have worked tirelessly for these causes. A permanent solution under the Constitution of India is vital, not only for the Gorkha people but for the entire region’s progress. The Gorkha, Rajbongshi, Adivasi, Bengali, and other communities have coexisted peacefully for generations. We look forward to building a future where everyone participates equally and freely in shaping our destiny.”
Binoy Tamang, former GTA chief and current Sabhasad, echoed the sentiment, appreciating both the tone and timing of the move: “This step reflects the government’s strategic foresight and political sensitivity. For the first time in the political trajectory of the Darjeeling Hills, such an engagement has been reached without civil disturbance, coercive mobilisation, or human casualty. It signifies the community’s growing political maturity and its deep commitment to peaceful deliberation.”
As the mist lifts over the Hills, the air once heavy with uncertainty now carries a cautious optimism—an old dream of peaceful dialogue and permanent political solution finding new life.
