Kalimpong turns political epicentre amid change of guard

Amitava Banerjee, MP,, May 7, 2026, Kalimpong: Kalimpong was the epicentre of political activities on Wednesday. With the power shift in Bengal, the political landscape of the Hills is fast changing.

Darjeeling Lok Sabha MP Raju Bista claimed that elections to the three Hill municipalities, overdue since 2023, will be held soon.

On Wednesday, Bista held a meeting with the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police, Kalimpong.

“When there is a change in guards, initially, there is some turmoil. It is my duty to ensure that everything is in order and nothing goes out of hand. I met the DM and SP to discuss these issues. Any attempt to disturb peace and tranquillity will be dealt with firmly,” stated Bista.

Regarding election to the civic bodies in Kalimpong, Kurseong and Mirik, the MP stated: “Political appointees have been running the municipalities. Their time is up. We will hold elections at the earliest, maybe in two or three months. In between, there could be a stopgap arrangement as the work of the civic bodies has to continue. Civic amenities have to be made available to the public.”

Bhim Agarwal, the Vice Chairperson, Board of Administrators, Kalimpong Municipality, tendered his resignation from the post with effect from May 6, 2026. The resignation was addressed to the District Magistrate, Kalimpong.

Meanwhile, Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) supporters arrived at the Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM) party office at the industrial park, Dambar Chowk, Kalimpong and tried to enter.

They were, however, stopped by the large contingent of security forces deployed in front of the BGPM party office and the TMC party office near the Kalimpong library.

“The administration has to conduct an inquiry into whether the two-party offices are built on government property. If that is the case, it should be handed over to the concerned department for the benefit of the public and not be allowed to function as party offices,” demanded Nima Tamang, GJM leader.

Meanwhile, the office of Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Vardhan Shringla has denied claims of a secret political meeting with Anit Thapa, President, BGPM and GTA Chief, calling them false and misleading.

A fake Facebook profile ‘J Zay’ allegedly circulated this using a 2022 photograph of a G20 Summit preparatory meeting.

“The circulation of such fabricated content during a sensitive time is highly irresponsible and appears intended to create public confusion and distrust,” stated his office. 

Courtesy & source- Millennium Post