GJM to hold elections in newly formed GTA

The representatives of the Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) after holding a discussion with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has finally decided to hold elections in the newly formed “Gorkha Territorial Administration” (GTA), giving a ray of hope towards resolving problems of the “hills”.

“I am happy with today’s (Saturday) meeting with the chief minister. Elections to the GTA will take place in July this year,” GJM leader Bimal Gurung told reporters at the state headquarters here on Saturday.

Earlier a six-member team, including Bimal Gurung and the spokesperson of the party Roshan Giri met Mamata to discuss on issues pertaining to holding of elections in GTA and the inclusion of added areas of the planes of Darjeeling and Japaiguri districts.

“The high-power-committee headed by former Justice Shyamal Sen will submit its report to the state government by the first week of June,” Giri said.

However, the bone of contention—inclusion of 398 mouzas in Terai and Dooars in the proposed GTA still remains unresolved. Giri also said: “The chief minister has agreed in principle to include the 398 mouzas in Terai and Dooars in the proposed GTA. After these areas are included in the GTA, we will go for polls in July this year.”However, a copy of the resolution which is in possession with Deccan Herald contradicts Giri’s statement.