New Political Party to Be Launched in Darjeeling on December 22 under Ajay Edwards’ Leadership

KalimNews, December 8, 2024, Kalimpong :  After weeks of mounting speculation, it has been confirmed that a new political party will officially be announced in Darjeeling on December 22. The buzz about the formation of a fresh political force in the hills had been growing, but the exact details remained unclear until now. A closed-door meeting held in Bagdogra on Friday, attended by key political figures, finalized the date for this significant development, a source said.

Ajay Edwards, president of Hamro Party, is expected to lead this new political formation, which aims to address longstanding issues of the Gorkha community, including ethnic rights, land concerns, and regional unity. Sources indicate that Edwards may step away from Hamro Party and introduce a new name and flag for this initiative. Speaking about the impending announcement, Edwards described the new party as "The New Equation in Hills," emphasizing its potential to transform the political landscape of the region.

Prominent leaders and members from various political backgrounds are expected to join the movement. These include veterans from the Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF), Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), Hill Trinamool Congress, Jan Andolan Party (JAP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and others, alongside former legislators, councilors, and parliamentarians. GNLF veteran Mahendra Chhetri and Trinamool Congress Hill General Secretary N.B. Khawas, who recently expressed dissatisfaction with the ruling party’s neglect of regional concerns, were among the attendees at Friday's meeting.

Ajay Edwards hinted at widespread support for the new party, claiming that "thousands of people" are ready to join this political revolution. He criticized both the West Bengal government and the central administration for what he termed "dictatorial policies" that have stifled regional voices.

The official announcement will be made at Darjeeling’s Gymkhana Hall. Edwards has suggested that the new party will prioritize the welfare and unity of the Gorkha community, with an emphasis on ensuring ethnic and regional integration. 

While the specifics of the new party’s structure, positions, and agenda will be unveiled at the event, the initiative is already being seen as a significant shift in the political dynamics of the Darjeeling Hills, Terai, and Dooars regions. Edwards urged the public to wait for the announcement, promising clarity on the future of Hamro Party and the new party’s identity.

This development marks a turning point in hill politics, with leaders and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds coming together to create what they believe is a platform dedicated to addressing the aspirations of the Gorkha people and their long-standing issues.