West Bengal, quit Darjeeling, says Bimal Gurung

Darjeeling: Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) chief Bimal Gurung on Saturday gave a “Bengal — Darjeeling Charo” call as the indefinite strike called by his outfit in Darjeeling demanding a separate state of Gorkhaland entered its 52nd day.

“Bengal — Darjeeling Choro (Bengal — quit Darjeeling),” would be the main slogan of the people in the Hills on the Independence Day, August 15, he said in a statement here. “Just as the British exploited us and tortured us, the West Bengal government is also doing the same with the people of the hills, Terai and Dooars. Therefore, when we participate in the Independence day celebrations, we will not only be celebrating our glorious freedom struggle, but will also be protesting against the Bengal’s colonial rule,” Mr Gurung added.

Meanwhile, GJM leader Norbu Lama, a close associate of Mr Gurung, was arrested by the CID on Friday night for his alleged involvement in arson and violence, which took place in the Hills last month. “He (Lama) was arrested from the Bhaktinagar police station area last night,” a senior CID official said.

GJM activists took out rallies in various parts of the Hills, demanding restoration of Internet services, which have been suspended since June 18, and an immediate withdrawal of police personnel from the Hills.