Darjeeling leaders welcome united push for ST status

GANGTOK,: Darjeeling political leaders Binoy Tamang and Neeraj Zimba, both elected representatives, have welcomed the collective push for ST status of the left-out communities of Sikkim and Darjeeling region.

On Sunday, a joint action committee was formed with representatives of the left-out communities of both the regions during a meeting held at Siliguri to take forward the demand afresh. Sikkim Chief Minister PS Golay and Darjeeling MP Raju Bista had attended the meeting.

In a media statement on Monday, GTA Sabhasad Binoy Tamang recorded his gratitude to the Sikkim CM and the Darjeeling MP for their joint efforts for the issue of tribes for 12 communities. Issue caught in the political vortex will definitely get success, for which l am confident and hopeful, he said.

“Due to geographic concepts as well as due to bilateral issues of neighbouring country , legal hurdles may arise, however, the Government of India will definitely consider, if this joint efforts will acknowledge and consider an  administrative, diplomatic and political course with accurate historical data, necessary documents and constitutional analysis in an  appropriate time and platforms,” suggested Tamang.

“Now, resourceful personalities, administrative experts, constitutional experts, political experts, and diplomatic experts are given the opportunity to work without recognising the individuals with a fragmented and self-interested mentality. In addition, keeping in mind the complexity of the tribal issue, there should be no impediment from the part of concerned caste institutions, social institutions, and political institutions and allow the expert volunteers to act freely. If we do so, certainly, this genuine issue will be overcome,” said the GTA Sabhasad.

“My humble request to everyone is that please don't make negative comments or statements without proper knowledge or without facts or politically motivated on this joint efforts and on their future course of activities,” said Tamang.

Darjeeling MLA Neeraj Zimba was among those who attended the joint coordination meeting at Siliguri which saw elaborate discussions and presentations from the stakeholders.

“The collective aspiration remains steadfast: to ensure that the deserving twelve left-out Gorkha communities are accorded their rightful status and recognition within the tribal framework. As we forge ahead, I reiterate my unwavering commitment to this cause, standing shoulder to shoulder with my esteemed colleagues and community in the pursuit of justice and equality for all,” said Zimba.