GJM’s Bimal Gurung Calls Off Gorkhaland Strike, Weathers Backlash

The strike was called off by GJM leader Bimal Gurung 105 days after the complete shutdown.

GJM leader Bimal Gurung at a rally in Darjeeling. 

(Photo: The Quint)

The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha leader Bimal Gurung on Tuesday announced the withdrawal of its indefinite shutdown in Darjeeling, 105 days after its complete shutdown.

The announcement came hours after Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh appealed to them to call off the strike and invited them for talks to find an amicable solution to the issue.

In an audio clip from an undisclosed location, Gurung urged hill residents to resume transport services, reopen shops and schools and colleges. He also extended greetings for the festive season

Also Read: “We’re Burning Under The Wrath of Mamata,” Darjeeling Youth Speak

Gurung has been criticised by the community for withdrawing the strikes and “relenting without finding a solution for the Gorkhaland deamand”.

I have not sold out my community. I have not betrayed my community. Even if my life goes, I will not betray my communityWith my decision to end the strike today, I want to say again that I will never accept an undemocratic movement. Whoever is scheming and saying I encouraged such things, will be trapped themselves.

Bimal Gurung

Reiterating that the situation in Darjeeling hills had returned to normalcy under State Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's leadership, he stressed that any meeting would need to involve the state government as well.

Also Read: Photo Diary: As Darjeeling Burns, Fight For Gorkhaland Continues

(With agency inputs)

Video Editor: Vivek Gupta