Anit Thapa Resigns as GTA Chairman, Signals Push for “Alternative Arrangement” in the Hills

KalimNews, June 17, 2026, Kalimpong: In a major political development that could significantly reshape the future of the Darjeeling hills, Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM) president Anit Thapa on Wednesday resigned from his post as Chairman and elected Sabhasad of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), stating that the move is aimed at paving the way for a long-awaited and “more permanent political solution” for the region.

Thapa, who also confirmed that his resignation was submitted electronically to the Governor of West Bengal, described the decision as an acceptance of electoral reality, noting that the people have chosen a new mandate in Bengal and placed their trust in the new government to deliver justice and address hill aspirations. He expressed hope that the incoming administration would work sincerely to fulfil the expectations of the Gorkha community.

In his statement, Thapa acknowledged the BGPM’s electoral setback in the Assembly polls, including losses in the hill constituencies, and said he personally accepts responsibility for the outcome. He remarked that there is a growing perception among sections of the public that the GTA structure itself has become an obstacle rather than a solution, and suggested that stepping aside at this moment could help clear the path for a stronger administrative or political alternative.

Emphasising collective action, Thapa urged not only his party representatives but also opposition Sabhasads to consider resigning, arguing that a unified move could accelerate the process of establishing a new arrangement for the hills. However, he clarified that he was not issuing any directive, stating that the decision must ultimately rest with individuals, even though coordinated action would be more impactful in achieving shared aspirations.

He also appealed to party workers not to lose confidence, urging them to remain committed to the organisation’s principles with renewed energy and positivity. At the same time, he suggested that this could be a crucial moment for elected representatives to “sacrifice” for the broader welfare of the community.

Soon after Thapa’s announcement, resignations followed within the GTA structure. Deputy Chief Executive Sanchabir Subba stepped down along with Sabhasad Arun Sigchi and Nominad Sabhasad Pranam Rasaily. Reports also indicated that several gram panchayat and panchayat samity members aligned with the BGPM tendered their resignations in quick succession.

The BGPM currently holds a majority in the 45-member elected GTA Sabha with 35 seats, and also enjoys strength in local panchayat bodies, making these resignations politically significant and potentially destabilising for the council’s functioning.

Thapa further addressed allegations of corruption against the GTA, welcoming the possibility of an inquiry, and stating that such investigations would help bring clarity to public concerns. He also pointed to financial constraints faced by the administration, claiming that the GTA had been struggling with limited funds and pending payments, making governance difficult.

The resignation comes against the backdrop of growing political debate over alleged irregularities in the GTA, with demands for investigation having been raised by parties aligned with the ruling establishment. Meanwhile, parties such as the Gorkha National Liberation Front and Gorkha Janmukti Morcha, both politically aligned with the BJP, welcomed Thapa’s decision, calling it appropriate and timely.

Political observers, however, remain divided over the development. While some view it as a strategic move that allows the BGPM a politically convenient exit while maintaining influence over future negotiations, others suspect a deeper political calculation. Certain commentators have suggested that keeping the GTA intact while resigning from leadership could allow space for a reshuffle in which any successor could be portrayed as obstructing the path toward a permanent settlement.

Speculation has also grown regarding internal tensions within the GTA, with earlier rumours of a possible no-confidence move reportedly circulating in political circles and social media platforms. Thapa’s resignation follows an internal party meeting held in Siliguri just a day earlier, after which the leadership had publicly claimed unity within the organisation.

In his concluding remarks, Thapa reiterated that the future course of action should align with the aspirations of the people and urged all stakeholders to support a credible political resolution. Sources also suggest that the BGPM may now seek closer engagement with the state government on development issues in the hills, even as the broader demand for a permanent political settlement continues to dominate the region’s political discourse.

The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration, which consists of 45 elected and 5 nominated members, remains at the centre of hill politics, with Thapa’s resignation marking one of the most consequential developments in recent years.