IGJF Rejects Past Models, Pushes for Collective Leadership for Permanent Political Solution

Amitava Banerjee, MP, June 12, 2026, Darjeeling : Darjeeling: Amid heightened political activity with the visit of the Interlocutor for the Gorkha impasse to the Darjeeling Hills, the Indian Gorkha Janshakti Front (IGJF) has reiterated its demand for a united and people-centric approach to securing a permanent political solution (PPS) for the Darjeeling Hills, Terai and Dooars.

The IGJF has asserted that the issue should transcend party politics and be guided by the collective aspirations of the people, opposing the system adopted in 1988 during the formation of the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council and again in 2011 at the time of formation of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA).

It also suggested that apolitical organisations are better suited to lead the talks for fulfilling the aspirations of the masses.

The statement came after representatives of civil society organisations, non-political bodies and political groups met interlocutor Pankaj Kumar Singh, IPS (Retd), in Kalimpong on Thursday.

In a statement issued after the meeting, the IGJF said it has consistently believed in the “unity of demand” concerning the future of the region and its people.

The IGJF maintained that previous settlements had failed to provide genuine autonomy, dignity and authority necessary for the overall development of the Hills, Terai and Dooars, and that any PPS should not be shaped by the interests of political parties seeking power but by the aspirations and sacrifices of the people.

“Our issue is not the private property of any party or leader. It belongs to the people,” said Ajoy Edwards, chief convenor, IGJF.

In 1988, the Memorandum of Understanding paving the way for the DGHC was inked by the Centre, state government and the Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF).

Again in 2011, an MoU was signed by the Centre, state government and the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha, resulting in the formation of the GTA.

The IGJF has called upon all stakeholders to rise above “ego, party and chair” and work together for the dignity, identity and future of the region.

Addressing reporters, NB Khawas said that non-political organisations are better placed to lead the movement for the community’s long-term aspirations as they are not bound by electoral compulsions or political compromises.

“If political parties lead such movements, there is always the possibility of compromises due to political compulsions. Non-political organisations do not face such constraints,” he said.

Meanwhile, GTA chief Anit Thapa met the Interlocutor for the first time on Wednesday.

“During the 45-minute discussion, we exchanged views on the issues of a permanent political solution. The meeting was positive,” he said.

Courtesy & source- Millennium Post