GNLF leader joins Morcha

Vivek Chhetri, TT, Darjeeling, Sept. 17: A joint secretary and spokesperson of the GNLF, Lhaadup Ghisingh, joined the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha at Patlabas here today.

Twenty-five families supporting the GNLF also joined Bimal Gurung’s party today.

“We have joined the Morcha on free will. We are only raising slogans regarding unity of Gorkhas in rallies and political meetings but in reality, we are not united. Instead of fighting among ourselves, we must be united,” Lhaadup said. “I think we wasted our time with the GNLF.”

GNLF chief Subash Ghisingh returned to the hills before the Lok Sabha polls but he remained largely aloof. He had directed his supporters to hold rallies every Sunday to demand “restoration of the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council until the Sixth Schedule status is conferred to the hills.” The rallies are being held since July.

Few months ago, Tshering Dahal, a senior GNLF leader had joined the Morcha.

GNLF convener, Darjeeling branch committee, M.G. Subba, said: “Lhaadup’s decision will not affect the GNLF. In fact, if people like Lhaadup leave the party, better people will come to GNLF and that will strengthen our party. He (Lhaadup) always had an inclination of going (out of the party).”