Former GLO leader and firebrand leader
Chattray Subba, who has come to the forefront of politics again, today
made a public speech almost after two and a half decades. Subba, who
joined the BJP only recently, was speaking at a public rally held at
Mela Ground here to campaign for SS Ahluwalia. He arrived at the venue
when the function was halfway through, and was welcomed by GJM chief
Bimal Gurung.
People cheered loudly when Subba was
called upon to address the rally. Wearing a felter hat with an axe (his
trademark of late), Subba started with a soft tone; “It’s after 25-26
years that I am addressing the public, I am not sure how you will take
my words. I have not forgotten Gorkhaland and want it anyhow. Gorkhaland
cannot be achieved merely by merrymaking or by taking false oaths,” he
said, a statement that has been interpreted as a veiled dig at Bimal
Gurung. He stressed on the need to be serious about the issue and to
pursue it with all sincerity.
Subba said during his 11 years in
prison, the state government had offered to release many times on
condition he relinquish the statehood demand. But he preferred to remain
behind bars rather than abandon his heartfelt aspiration.
Explaining his decision to join the BJP,
Subba said, “I did not join the BJP without reason and the new
generation should realise this. According to exit polls, it’s imminent
that the BJP will come to power this time. If this happens, Ahluwalia,
who will be representing Darjeeling, will speak for Gorkhaland in
Parliament. This is why I have joined the BJP.”
Subba also appealed to GJM supporters to join the BJP, which came as an embarrassment to GJM leaders present on the dais.