After SC's rejection, Bimal Gurung pins hope on Union govt

MP, Darjeeling: The day after Gorkha Janmukti Morcha leader Bimal Gurung failed to get any reprieve from the Supreme Court, the Gorkha leader decided to pin his hope on the Union Government to bail him out from the present crisis.

In a video clip from an undisclosed location, Gurung addressing his followers asked them to keep calm and be patient. "This is not the end of the road. There are other doors too. I had lifted the 105-day bandh on the request of the Union Home Minister and his assurance to hold tripartite talks within 15 days. Tripartite talks have not been held yet," stated Gurung.

He then urged the Union Government to call tripartite talks immediately. "We are an ally of the BJP, the NDA. The government should immediately call a meeting between the Union, West Bengal Government and GJM. A political solution needs to be worked out. We are not terrorists or working against the country. We are facing an identity crisis. Hence, we are asking for our rights in a democratic manner. We respect the law and the courts," stated Gurung.

Gurung, who is booked in 58 cases under various sections including the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act claimed that all the arson, looting and unlawful activities during the agitation period and the 104-day bandh in 2017, were the handwork of the police and district administration.

"I have not sold myself and will definitely work for the liberation of the Gorkhas. I will never sell my community. If required I will lay down my life for the Gorkhas" stated Gurung. On Friday, the Apex Court allowed the State police to proceed against Gurung along with dismissing his plea.