Binoy firm on fast, demand

SNS, 10 October 2019, DARJEELING: Gorkha Jan Mukti Morcha leader Binoy Tamang is firm on continuing the fast-unto death that he has launched in support of 20 percent Puja bonus payment for tea workers in the Hills.

Meanwhile, as the fast entered the fifth day at the Motor Stand here today and as Mr Tamang's health worsened, trade union leaders from different parties left for Kolkata to attend the tripartite meeting called by the state government tomorrow to discuss the bonus issue.

"The health of our leader is worsening by the day, but he has said that he will continue with his hunger strike until the demand for 20 percent bonus is met.We also had an emergency meeting of our party today where we decided on five different programmes if the Kolkata meeting tomorrow fails. We will announce the programmes at the right time," Morcha (Tamang camp) leader Keshav Raj Pokhrel said.

Mr Pokhrel further maintained that they have also requested tea garden workers to sit in front of the gates of their respective tea gardens tomorrow until the meeting gets over.

Tamang parents visit him

On the other hand. Mr Tamang's parents visited him today (photo), along with trade union leaders of different parties. A prayer service was also held there.

Speaking about the meeting to be held tomorrow, Jan Andolan Party trade union leader Amar Lama said. "A meeting of different trade union leaders was held today and we have decided to attend the meeting tomorrow. We are hoping for the best and want the meeting to reach a good conclusion."

Sharma solidarity

Among those visiting Mr Tamang today was Hill Trinamul Congress leader Binny Sharma.

"I conveyed to him (Tamang) my support in his unconditional fight in support of our thousands of tea garden workers who were deprived of Puja bonus this year. Working in the hilly terrain in rough climate with all hardships throughout the year, these workers am solely dependent on the bonus (during festival time). But this year. the tea garden owners deprived these workers and their children their right to happiness and the right to celebrate the Dashain festival, which our biggest festival. It turned out to be a festival of tears and sadness for them," Mr Sharma said.

"I salute Binoy Tamang and stand by his family too., who were sitting by his side on the stage, including his six year old son." he added.

Slamming the MP and MLA of Darjeeling for remaining silent on the matter, he said that the Darjeeling Tea Association and its officials are equally responsible for the situation. "Their role, along with a few garden owners, has to be investigated. They are the main villains. If any undue situation or unrest arises in the Hills today, they will solely be responsible. In fact. I spoke to a couple of tea garden owners and they sounded positive about paying 20 percent bonus, but the DTA is calling the shots and is trying to create unrest," Mr Sharma added.