In a surprise development, the Gorkha National Liberation Front is
likely to support the Trinamool Congress in the Lok Sabha polls. It has
been learnt that the senior leadership of the GNLF recently held a
meeting with party chief Subash Ghisingh at his rented residence in
Matigara and discussed the party’s stance towards the elections. It was
reportedly decided to support the party that will back the GNLF’s demand
for Sixth Schedule status for the Darjeeling hills.
Nima Lama, a senior GNLF leader from Kurseong, said representatives from
all the three sub-divisions have already held meetings with the party
chief. He added the decision regarding the Lok Sabha election has also
been taken. However, considering the political development in the hills,
the party is waiting for an opportune moment to announce its decision.
Meanwhile, another senior leader said the GNLF has decided to extend
support to the party that will support the Sixth Schedule demand. On
being asked if it he had the CPM in mind, the GNLF leader ruled this out
saying even though the CPM supports the Sixth Schedule demand, his
party is unlikely to support it owing to various reasons.
It may be noted that the TMC government recently passed a bill on ST
status for 10 Gorkha sub-communities and has also formed a couple of
community based development setups.
The GNLF leader, not wanting to be named, claimed the TMC leadership has
approached his party for support on several occasions. But he stressed
the TMC must depute some high profile leaders to meet party supremo
Subash Ghising if it indeed wants the GNLF’s in the LS elections.
Meantime, TMC sources said NBDD minister Gautam Deb and other senior TMC
leaders are likely to meet Ghisngh in a day or two to seek his support.
Deb denied to comment saying the TMC can seek votes from anyone, but
every strategy cannot be disclosed. Given the prevailing circumstances,
such as the GJM’s decision to support the BJP in the three LS
constituencies of North Bengal, the TMC will not let go the opportunity
of roping the GJM’s arch rival, the GNLF. At the same time, a tie up
with the TMC may be highly beneficial to the GNLF as its leaders and
supporters are dwindling.
Meanwhile, the Darjeeling residence of Ghising is being spruced up as
the GNLF chief is expected to visit this week. Reportedly, the party’s
LS election strategy will be announced from there at a press conference.
(EOIC)