GNLF RENEWS DEMAND FOR SEPARATE GORKHALAND

Why in the news?

Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar proposed including North Bengal in the northeastern region, prompting hill parties to renew their demand for a separate Gorkhaland.
GNLF leader Mann Ghisingh issued an ultimatum to the BJP, setting a deadline of April 5, 2025, to resolve the Gorkha issues.

source: TheDC

Key Demands:

The proposal led to a surge in calls for unity among political parties in the hills, with GNLF and other hill party leaders emphasizing the need to address the longstanding demand for Gorkhaland
The proposal also sparked calls for a Greater Cooch Behar State and a new Union Territory comprising parts of Jharkhand, Bihar, and West Bengal to address undocumented immigration issues.

The Gorkhaland Issue

What is Gorkhaland?

Gorkhaland comprises Nepali-speaking people from Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kurseong, and other hilly districts of West Bengal.
These communities have distinct cultural, ethical, and linguistic differences from the Bengali community of West Bengal.

Historical Background:

The demand for a separate administrative region in Darjeeling dates back to 1907.
The term “Gorkhaland” was coined in the 1980s by Subhash Ghising, founder of the Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF).

Movement and Region:

The Gorkhaland Movement is focused on creating a separate state in the Darjeeling Hills.
The region includes the Duars and Terai areas, known for their tea and natural beauty, which are key sources of income.

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