GNLF Demands Justice for Gorkhas: Unfurls Black Flag in Dooars

RAJESH SHARMA, KALIMNEWS, JAIGAON, SEPTEMBER 8, 2024: The Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF) leader, Man Ghising, unfurled a black flag in the Dooars region of West Bengal on Sunday, signaling a renewed call for justice and rights for the Gorkha community from the Central Government. This act is part of an escalating series of demonstrations aimed at demanding greater autonomy and a separate state for Gorkhas.

The black flag was unfurled in the Coronation Bridge (Baghpul) and Samsing area of Dooars, a location noted for its strategic significance near the Indo-Bhutan border. Observers have highlighted the importance of this move, emphasizing the geopolitical implications of such a protest in this sensitive area. Ghising was accompanied by his supporters and party workers, who raised slogans demanding justice and rights for the Gorkha community.

During the event, Ghising also paid tribute to the martyrs who lost their lives in the 2011 Sibshu police firing incident, a tragic event etched deeply in the memory of the Gorkha community. "The community has not forgotten the sacrifices made by the martyrs, and we will continue to fight for our rights," Ghising said.

Speaking to reporters, Ghising remarked, "I announced on July 27, 2024, that we would not rest until we get justice. Today, I have come to Dooars to send a message to the Indian government. We will not be divided by different colors of flags. We want to unite and put pressure on the government to give us our rights."

Ghising's latest move is seen as a significant step in the ongoing struggle of the Gorkha community for recognition and rights. The demand for a separate state, Gorkhaland, has been a long-standing issue, with decades of resistance faced from both the West Bengal Government and the Centre. The GNLF has been at the forefront of these demands, organizing protests, rallies, and demonstrations across the hill region, including the Dooars and the Terai, to amplify their call for justice.

The unfurling of the black flag in Dooars is a stark reminder of the unresolved issues faced by the Gorkha community and the lengths to which its leaders are willing to go to ensure their voices are heard. As tensions continue to simmer, it remains to be seen how the Centre and the West Bengal Government will respond to this renewed push for Gorkha rights and statehood.