Morcha supporters conduct postering
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 29:
In one hand Chowrasta in Darjeeling was soaring with ‘We Want Gorkhaland’ slogans by the GJM supporters during a governmental programme attended by the chief minister Mamata Banerjee there, while in the other, mass postering was conducted by the Gorkha Janmukti Yuva, Naari and Vidyarthi Morcha at Kalimpong, before the CM reached the said sub division.
“Darjeeling hills is not a part of Bengal’, read a poster. ‘We protest the CM who is against Gorkhaland’, read another. ‘Gorkhaland should be formed as per the Article 3 (A) of the Indian Constitution’, demanded another poster.
However, not a single voice opposed while the CM travelled through the Main Road, Kalimpong. Instead, Mamata continuously accepting everybody’s greetings on the way left for Algarah. She will be staying over at the Health Department’s Guest House at Algarah.
Binay Ghising, Kalimpong Yuva Morcha spokesperson said that the Bengal CM needs to go through the history of the Darjeeling hills.
Likewise, Kumar Chamling, the Kalimpong sub division GJM secretary opposed the CM’s statement of Darjeeling not to be separated from Bengal.
A similar postering was also done by the Yuva Morcha in Darjeeling too.
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Accepting facilities from the govt while demanding a separate state is foolishness- ABGL
MUKESH SHARMA
Kalimpong, January 29:
Similar to every party of the hills, the Akhil Bharatiya Gorkha League (ABGL) has come forward demanding Gorkhaland. The ABGL secretary, Pratap Khati today said that Gorkhaland needs to be formed either Telangana is formed or not.
He alleged the ruling Morcha of not being sincere towards the Gorkhaland demand.
“Everyone knows the condition of GTA, which was once publicized of being next to a state”, he said and added that GTA even does not have its own account. The district magistrate’s account is being used by the GTA, he told.
Further he said that GTA is no different than the DGHC, which proved of being a hindrance for separate state formation.
“No resolution for Gorkhaland has been passed in the GTA, this shows the seriousness of the Morcha towards the demand”, charged Khati.
He demanded that charges should be made against the Morcha leaders like how it happened in Telangana.
“It is foolish to demand for a separate state when in one hand you are accepting the facilities under the government”, added Khati.
Lastly, he said that the demand has lost its way because the history of the Gorkhas has been totally presented falsely by the ruling party.
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Unemployed youths deprived of employment under Excise Dept
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 29:
The unemployed youths under the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has once again been deprived of being appointed under the Excise Department which had 1267 vacant posts. The CPRM leader, Tara Sundas, called on a press meet in the town on Monday and has protested the same. According to Sundas, the West Bengal Government has issued an order to appoint 1267 employees under the Excise Department. The appointment process under the same has started off with 162 males and 20 females in Alipurdwar, 80 males and 22 females in Jalpaiguri, 208 males and 28 females in Burdwan, 158 males and 24 females in Durgapur, 108 males and 10 females in Barrackpore, 118 males and 18 females in Krishna Nagar, 128 males and 22 females in Khadakpur and 18 individuals under the special section.
“In one hand many people are being employed under this, while in the other there is no single employment in the GTA area”, said Sundas.
Though the forms are being distributed in the Excise Department, Darjeeling, Sundas has alleged that it is just a way to misguide the people.
“Where will the youths of Darjeeling be employed when there is no separate quota?” questioned Sundas.
“Just like there was no single person from Darjeeling during the appointment of Kolkata Police, the same will happen with this employment too”, added the CPRM leader.
He charged the hills’ leaders of doing nothing towards the benefit of the general public.
Likewise, he also notified that under the state’s Forest Department, Rs 173 per day is being given and training is imparted. After the training, the individuals are deployed in the said department.
Further he said that the GLPs who have been working hard are just being assured of employment, while the Maoists are being deployed as home guards. The educated youths should voice against such steps of the government, he added.
Sundas directed the unemployed youths to enquire about the employment under the Forest Department, with the concerned area DFO and Forest officials.
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Family of Triveni road mishap injured survivor seek monetary help
MUKESH SHARMA
Kalimpong, January 29:
Anup Pradhan, one of the individuals of narrowly survived the 18 January Triveni road mishap has been referred to a hospital at Kolkata. The 27 year old a driver by profession belongs to a poor family who are not being able to bear Anup’s medical expenses. Already 2 lakhs have been invested on his medical treatment at Siliguri. Anup’s backbone has been injured severely, which needs to be operated. His family members informed that around 3 lakhs is needed for the necessary operation. The members of the necessitous family have sought for financial help. The Triveni Yuva Sangh has stepped forward to collect funds for ailing Anup. Once can contribute any amount in the SBI Teesta Branch under A/C no.: 11884177684.
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Burnt dead body found
Mukesh sharma
Kalimpong, January 29:
A burnt dead body of a woman was found in front of her house situated at Dalapchand area, today. The people informed the police after the body came into their notice. The deceased has been identified as Bandana Rai aged 28. It has been forwarded to the Kalimpong hospital. The police has initiated the investigation for the same.
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Morcha voice for Gorkhaland in Delhi
Kalimpong, January 28:
The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) supporters held a sit-in demonstration at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar to press their demand for carving a separate state of Gorkhaland from West Bengal.
Carrying placards and banners and raising slogans, hundreds of GJM activists began their demonstration today morning.
Among those who participated in the demonstration included the GJM Central Committee General Secretary, Roshan Giri and the three GJM legislators of the West Bengal Assembly, namely Rohit Sharma, Harka Bahadur Chettri and Trilok Dewan. The Gorkha Janmukti Yuva, Vidyarthi and Naari Morcha also partook.
Terming the demand for Gorkhaland as the oldest demand for statehood, Giri said that the central government should take up the issue of Gorkhaland along with Telangana.
“The Gorkhaland demand was first voiced in 1907, which was 40 years before independence. But the central government is not prepared to consider our demand. It is only considering Telangana. Our demand is that along with Telengana, the demand for Gorkhaland must also be considered”, said Giri.
“We won’t sit idle. We will start a full-scale movement in the hills and Terai region of Darjeeling”, he added.
The long standing agitation for forming a separate state of the northern West Bengal hills has led to loss of many lives over the past two decades, besides hitting hard the region's economic mainstays of tea, timber and tourism.
On July 18 last year, a tripartite agreement was signed between the GJM, and the state and central governments for setting up Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), an autonomous and elected hill council armed with more powers than its predecessor, the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council (DGHC) formed in the late 1980s.
The GJM now runs the GTA after sweeping its maiden elections last July.
Giri, however, said the GJM never dropped the Gorkhaland demand while signing the GTA agreement.
“The tripartite agreement clearly mentioned, without dropping the demand for Gorkahland and keeping on record the demand for Gorkhaland”, he added.
With chief minister Mamata Banerjee slated to be in Darjeeling district from Monday afternoon, the GJM leader said, “the chief minister and the Bengal government have their own stated position on the Gorkhaland issue, while we have our own”.
The GJM leaders on January 11 had met the Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde to press for their demand.
As per the information received from Kalimpong MLA, Dr Harka Bahadur Chettri, the Morcha will be meeting with the Bharitiya Janta Party’s (BJP) new President, Rajnath Singh and other office bearers of the BJP and discuss on Gorkhaland. The Dharna will then continue again from Wednesday till February 05, 2013.
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Issue of Gorkhas being labeled as ‘foreigners’ highlighted in Mumbai Marathon
MUKESH SHARMA
Kalimpong, January 28:
Total 17 runners from Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kurseong and Sikkim did well in the Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon held at Mumbai on January 20, 2013. During the marathon, Roshni Rai, an international runner from Pedong under the ‘Run with Roshni’ project carried forward the issue of Gorkhas being labeled as ‘foreigners’ in the country. With a logo on the jersey reading, ‘We are Gorkhas and we are proud to be Indians’, 3 runners of the hills completed the 42 km full marathon. Other participants from different countries completed the 21 kms half marathon.
Prabal Chettri, from Kalimpong secured 12th position in the half marathon under the Indian category.
Mala Sherpa, member of the Himalayan Marathon Runner Association, who also partook in the event, has thanked all those who supported them. She has especially thanked her coach, friends and GTA deputy chief Col Ramesh Allay. All the participants also received certificates from the Navi Mumbai Rotary Club.
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Kalimpong Karatekas bring home silver and bronze
MUKESH SHARMA
Kalimpong, January 28:
The 4th Netaji Subash State Sports Competition 2013 (Bengal Olympics) was organized by the Bengal Olympic Association on January 27, 2013 at Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, Kolkata. Under the leadership of Susan Thapa, the members of Shito Ryu Seiko Kai partook in the event. Sujata Rai, under 50 kg Kumuti womens category, won silver. She is a student of Kalimpong Girls High School. Likewise, in the mens category Abner Biswakarma (55 kg) won bronze. He is a student of SUMI.
Susan Thapa informed that the Indian Karate team will leave for Dubai to participate in the International Karate Champion, on Tuesday.
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3 days long ‘Jeewan ki Paathshala’ commences
MUKESH SHARMA
Kalimpong, January 28:
The 3 days long ‘Jeewan ki Paathshala’ for little children commenced today at the RMPS premises of SUMI. it is being organized by the World Vision ADP Himalaya. Around 100 deprived children coming from remote villages will be imparted teachings on life by 60 teachers.
Capacity building, firm principles, life’s aim, health development and self defence, are the 5 main topics in which the students will be taught.
NR Pradhan was the chief guest for the inauguration today accompanied by Rev Father Samuel Lepcha as the guest of honour.
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Deceased owners’ family assure to return investors’ money
MUKESH SHARMA
Kalimpong, January 28:
Following the picketing done by the investors of Ashis Enterprise, the deceased owners’ family, agents and the investors today met at the Police station and tried solving the money matter. The owners’ family has assured to return back the invested money of the people by selling off their property. They have asked for some time to do the same and to discuss the matter with their advocate.
The company has incurred loss of around Rs 2 crores, it is said.
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Republic Day celebrated in the hills Sonu Nigam enthralls the public at Jamuney
Darjeeling/Kalimpong, Jan 27:
Similar to every part of the country hills too celebrated the 64th Republic Day. In Darjeeling the day was celebrated at Chowrasta. District Magistrate Dr Soumitra Mohan hosted the national flag. During the program S.P Kunal Agrawal and other officials were present. Darjeeling police band played the National Anthem. In his brief address Dr Mohan appealed one and all to maintain peace.
Krishi Mela at Jamuni organised by GTA also observed this significant day. Renowned Bollywood playback singer, Sonu Nigam presented the patriotic songs.
Kalimpong celebrated the Republic Day in a grand manner on Saturday. Despite of the winter holidays, the school students partook in the Republic Day parade. The celebrations at Main Road witnessed Marathi and Khukuri dances by the students and the jawans of the 27 Mt Brigade Army.
The Kalimpong Sub Divisional Officer, unfurled the national flag at Main Road. Lt. Col. MS Gurung from 27 Mt. Division Brigade, Padmashree, Sonam Tshering Lepcha, Ward Councilor, GTS Sabhasad, etc was present during the function.
The celebrations was followed by a programme at Mela Ground during which, kite flying competition and 15 kms run was conducted. The race conducted by Kumudini Homes family started from 17 Mile and concluded at Mela Ground. Binod Tamang and Abhishek Karki from SUMI stood 1st and 2nd, respectively, while Basir Sharma from Kumudini Homes stood 3rd, in the mens category. Likewise, in the womens category, the winners were Renuka Rai from Sitang, Santa Sharma from Indo Tibetan and Menuka Khanal.
Also during the occasion, the para gliders showering flower petals from Delo landed at Mela Ground.
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Investors picket Ashis Enterprise, demands back their money
Mukesh sharma
Kalimpong, January 27:
People who had invested money at the Ashis Enterprises, today gathered at its office situated at 10 Mile demanding back their invested amount. It may be mentioned that the company’s owner, had committed suicide on 1st January fed up with the losses incurred by his firm.
100-150 individuals picketed the office and asked for their money. Discussions and deliberations also took place between the concerned society, agents, employees of the company, the investors, the owner’s son and the house owner. The investors lodged a case at the Police station after they did not get any confirmation on their money return.
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KKKS demand crop insurance for farmers of the hills
Mukesh sharma
Kalimpong, January 27:
In one hand while the Kisan Credit Card (Farmers’ Credit Card) initiated by the government is said to benefit the farmers in the country, while in the other, Kalimpong Krishak Kalyan Sangathan (KKKS) has alleged that the card is doing nothing except putting the farmers in debt.
Vishnu Chettri, the KKKS Secretary, today said that the credit card facilitates loan to the farmers with 4% interest, insurance to the farmers, crop insurance, etc. The letter issued by the Reserve Bank of India vide letter no. RBI/2011-12/553/RPCD.FSD.BC. No. 77/05.09.2012 dated May 11, 2012, mentions these facilities of the credit card.
On this context, Chettri said that the farmers in the hills are being delivered loan and insurance, however, they are deprived from crop insurance.
He informed that unlike in the plains, only selective crops/ spices/ vegetables grow in the hills such as large cardamom, ginger, orange, soft broom, vegetables and few medicinal plants. The produce here faces issues like natural calamities and is at times eaten or spoiled by the animals. Despite of the crop insurance mentioned in the RBI guidelines, the farmers here are not receiving the same, he said.
The KKKS demanding that the crop insurance should be delivered to the farmers of the hills has forwarded letters to the General Manager of RBI, Kolkata, General Manager of NABARD, Chairman of the State Level Bankers’ Committee, Darjeeling District Magistrate, Lead District Manager of Central bank of India, Darjeeling, etc.
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Black deer rescued from water tank
Mukesh sharma
Kalimpong, January 27:
A deer belonging to the species of black deer was found at the SUMI Mission Compound today. The deer with pointed horns had fallen at a water tank near the SUMI Principal, NR Pradhan’s residence. It is opined that the deer which wandered its way from the forest fell into the tank after being chased by the dogs. The children living at the Principal’s house pulled out the deer from the tank and tied it up. Later it was taken to the Forest Department office and handed over. The department will further hand it over to the Wild Life Department. The age of the deer is said to be 1 and ½ years, it has been informed.
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Dead fetus found in canal
Mukesh sharma ,kalimpong
A dead foetus wrapped in a cloth was found dumped in a canal near Bagdhara today. It was noticed by some passers-by on the slope of the canal and the police was informed.After police came and recovered
the fetus and send it to hospital for the post-mortem. After which the fetus was identified as male and is considered about 25 weeks old. Such type of incident is a shame to outwards our society said a local.
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GJM out of track at the moment- CPRM
Mukesh sharma
Kalimpong, January 25
The Communist Party of Revolutionary Marxists (CPRM) Kalimpong Regional Committee spokesperson Mohan Poudyal today said that the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha deep from the hearts does not want Gorkhaland. Clarifying it, he stated that the GJM snatched and tore away the entire posters meant for Gorkhaland, by the opposition parties at Kurseong. There is no democracy in the Hills as whenever the opposition tries to do something for Gorkhaland the GJM obstructs it said Poudyal.
He held that the GJM should immediately stop doing the shameful act. The GJM should bring in public the resolution passed for Gorkhaland in the GTA and must inform the people till when it will get passed.
The GJM must also know that three states viz Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and the Uttar Pradesh was granted statehood during the year 2000, and BJP did not had majority in the above states but only at the centre.
The CPRM Regional president Kishor Pradhan said that one has to fight honestly for the attainment of Gorkhaland. The GJM has been time and again claiming it to be their last agitation for Gorkhaland but the term ‘last’ does not seems to end for them.
‘If it is the last war than more friends should be made than enemies’ said Pradhan. In a republic country like India, every party has the right to voice their issues and problems. The anti-social elements should be stopped at once said Pradhan.
The GJM seems out of track at present he added.
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22nd foundation day of Lepcha Culture & Heritage organized
Mukesh sharma
Kalimpong, January 25
The 22nd foundation day of the Lepcha Culture & Heritage was today observed at the Mani Gumba playground at 11th mile, Kalimpong. It was organized by the Mayel Kyoung Shajom Maney Gumba.
The day saw unique display of the Lepcha traditional religious books, items made out of bamboo, tools for hunting and etc. The gathering mostly the youths witnessed the rich ritual of the Lepcha marriage through a play. The Gumba will also be made a tourist spot as it dates back to more than 300 years back; it also reflects the works of the people of the place. The sale of the handicrafts will also boost the living standard of the people is learnt.
The ILTA president LM Tamsang, secretary PT Lepcha, assistant secretary NT Lepcha, Padma Shri Sonam Tshering Lepcha were present. The main aim of the celebration was to preserve the rich heritage of the Lepchas.
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National Voters Day observed
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 25
The National Voter’s Day was observed at the Ramkrishna Rangamanch in Kalimpong today. The information officer Mitendra Chettri, deputy magistrate Priyam Limboo and H Roy distributed new voter cards to the eligible citizens. Deputy magistrate Pritam Limboo educated the voters on their rights and power behind it. He also expressed his sadness that many of the rural people above the 18 years of age are unaware of their important right.
A quiz and essay competition was also organized and prizes were awarded to the winners. The day was also observed in other sub divisional offices.
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GRNM postering for Gorkhaland
Mukesh sharma
Kalimpong, January 25
After the Communist Party of Revolutionary Marxists and the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha, the Gorkhaland Rajya Nirman Morcha carried out postering drive demanding Gorkhaland today in Kalimpong. They demanded the creation of Gorkhaland under Article 3(9) of the Indian constitution. Prior to this, the GRNM also carried out postering drive calling for the Sikkim-Darjeeling unification.
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Hills buckle up for the 2nd phase Gorkhaland agitation
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 24:
At this hour of insurgency in the hills regarding Gorkhaland, the Gorkha Janmukti Naari Morcha (GJNM) Central Committee President, Asha Gurung has claimed that she can transform into another ‘Jhansi Ki Rani’ if the situation demands.
Addressing a mammoth gathering today at Mela Ground, Kalimpong, the Naari Morcha Head insisted that Gorkhaland should be formed along with Telangana. The centre keeping in mind the dire consequences of the GJM’s 2nd phase of agitation, if Gorkhaland is not granted, should consider the demand at the soonest, she said.
“We shall prolong the agitation until our demand is fulfilled. If not, the situation here will not be good”, she warned.
The Kalimpong MLA, Dr Harka Bahadur Chettri on his part said that the oppositions in the Hills time and again have been skeptical towards GJM.
“They have tried their best to defame us. But the opposition instead of simply talking should come forward and do something constructive for the Hills”, he said.
Dr Chettri added that they are ever ready to come into action if the GJM Chief, Bimal Gurung calls upon them to do something for Gorkhaland.
The GJM Central Committee member Bijay Sundas stated that the Hills remain segregated even during the eve of Republic Day. The attitude of the centre and the state towards Gorkhaland has been harsh, he said and added that this time nobody in the Hills should fight each other; rather everybody should pressurize the centre united.
GJM’s Samuel Gurung and Sawan Rai also addressed the gathering.
All the shops at the Kalimpong town remained closed today during the meeting. The GTA Sabhasads, Councilors, members of the GJM frontal organization and others were also present during the meeting, which was organized by the GJM Kalimpong Sub Divisional Committee under the chairmanship of GTA Deputy Chief Col Ramesh Allay.
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Buck up for Gorkhaland agitation says Giri
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 24
The GJM general secretary Roshan Giri in his strong words today appealed the people to be prepared for the Gorkhaland agitation. Giri said that the centre and the state are well aware that the GTA is a temporary set-up, but the real goal was the Gorkhaland.
If the centre declares Telengana, Gorkhalalnd is ought to be formed held Giri. The people should be ready for the massive agitation if the centre sidelines the demand of Gorkhaland this time too.
He also informed that the routine for upcoming Gorkhaland agitation will be decided in the upcoming public meeting at Darjeeling on February 12. The people holds an inseparable part in a Republic and the centre must well think on the matter said Giri.
Expressing his sadness, Giri said that when a Gorkha soldier gives his life protecting the country, he gets national identification, but when the same Gorkha demands his rights, he is often labeled as a foreigner.
He also informed that the key members of the GJM will sit for dharna at the Jantar Mantar demanding Gorkhaland. Lastly he appealed the people to get ready for the agitation.
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KKKS demands inclusion of hospitals under Govt list
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 24
The central government under its health scheme had provided to treat the Below Poverty Lines families free of cost. The expanses occurred in the treatments are totally beard by the government. But the poor families in the Hills are sidelined of the said facilities as none of the hospitals in Kalimpong are included under the government lists.
The poor families have to either go to Siliguri or Darjeeling on their own expanses. Looking at the problems, the Kalimpong Krishak Kalyan Sangathan has demanded the inclusion of the Kalimpong hospital under the government lists. The general secretary of the Sangathan Bishnu Chettri today submitted a memorandum to the deputy magistrate H Roy on the matter.
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Only meetings and rallies in hills cannot gather support-: GTF to GJM
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 23:
After the Telangana formation seems quite possible, the hills have also caught pace with its separate state demand. Voices are being raised, postering is being held, mass public meetings are being conducted, etc. On this context, the Gorkhaland Task Force (GTF) has made clear that their faction will always voice for Gorkhaland.
“With our without the Telangana issue coming under the spotlight, the GTF has always stood for the separate state demand”, advocates a GTF press release issued today.
The Force who claims of not remaining silent believes that the Gorkhaland demand has its own value. The GTF’s struggle will prolong until the demand is fulfilled, the GTF Chairman, Sukhman Moktan, has stated in the release.
It also informs that the Force with high alertness is keeping a check on the steps taken by the Centre at present.
Moktan in the release has said that the GTF does not believe that support for the century old demand cannot be gathered through meetings and rallies in the hills.
“For greater support works should be done collaboratively by including the Terai- Dooars and Siliguri areas under the Gorkhaland region”, asserts Moktan.
Alleging the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) of making the aforesaid idea complex, the Chairman has complained that Morcha has spoiled the relationship between the communities here.
Further the release notifies that the GTF is engrossed with their plans and programmes focusing the country’s capital.
“If the GJM is serious about the demand, then they should first pass the Gorkhaland resolution in the GTA board, dissolve the GTA, the MLAs should resign and commence a mass rally at New Delhi and initiate the agitation”, the GTF has recommended.
Further, the GTF has also advised of forming a Sangarsh Samiti by taking the agitations of Uttarkhand and Telangana as examples.
The GTF has appealed all to resist their selfish political motives and instead come forward for Gorkhaland.
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Halted bus service resume after Morcha’s pressurization
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 23
The North Bengal State Transport Corporation (NBSTC) had provided two buses at the Kalimpong depot, one from Kalimpong to Siliguri and the other from Kalimpong to Pani Tanki. But the sudden halt of the bus services has resulted severe problems to the commuters. The bus used to ferry students and the office goers to Siliguri to and forth.
The concerned department officials have blamed the Kalimpong depot In-charge, Anil Kumar Sarkar for the halt of the bus services.
“He was planning in removing the bus services from the depot”, they accused.
The GJM Yuva Morcha spokesperson Binay Ghisingand the Central Committee member Bijay Sundas has tried to learn the matter with the officials of the concerned department, following which the GTA Deputy Chief Col Ramesh Allay, member Subh Pradhan, GJM Sub Divisional Committee president Sarita Rai and secretary Kumar Chamling reached the spot and pressurized the In-charge to restart the service.
After much pressure, the In-charge contacted Bikas Das, divisional manager at Siliguri, who assured to continue bus service to Siliguri with effect from Thursday. The divisional manager also said that the bus service to Pani Tanki will resume in few days.
The GJM has warned that if the bus services will discontinue, they will not let the In-charge leave from Kalimpong easily.
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Tata Spacio accident: Search operation still unsuccessful
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 23:
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| file photo |
After 6 days of the fateful Tata Spacio accident returning from Triveni Mela, the missing people are still not found. Soon after the incident, the Rafting Rescue team recovered 6 dead bodies and on Sunday another body was recovered. Until now 7 dead bodies have been found and the rest 9 remains untraced. The rafting team is on their tips and toes every day, but their search operation results unsuccessful.
The closing of the 29th Mile Hydro Project Dam has become one of the major hindrances to the search operation. As per Sukhbir Tamang, rafter and President of the River Rafting Association, the closing of the dam has caused rise and stagnation in water level which is not allowing them to search properly.
Though, the deceased are from the Sikkim state, till now no agencies or administrations from Sikkim are helping in the search operation.
The locals keeping in mind the increasing number of accidents had demanded for construction of a security wall along the NH31A.
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Morcha to hold public meeting at Mela Ground today
Mukesh sharma
Kalimpong, January 23:
To pressurize the Gorkhaland demand, a public meeting will be held on Mela Ground, Kalimpong, on Thursday under the direction of the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha Central Committee by the Kalimpong Sub Divisional Committee.
After the formation Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) peaceful atmosphere up to some extent was being created in the hills, however, the Union Home Minister, Sushil Kumar Shinde’s statement on Telangana formation has yet again made the situation in the hills tumultuous. He had said that by January 28, 2013, the final decision on Telangana would be declared.
The Morcha on January 20, 2013 during a meeting at Darjeeling kept forward the Gorkhaland demand.
The GJM has further decided to hold mass public meetings at Kurseong on January 29, 2013 and also in Mirik later in the days to come. On February 12, 2013, the Morcha will be chalking out the future agitation programmes.
The Morcha Central Committee General Secretary, Roshan Giri along with the Kalimpong MLA, Dr Harka Bahadur Chettrim Darjeeling Sub Divisonal Committee, Vice President, Sawan Rai and the office bearers of the Kalimpong Sub Divisional Committee will be present during the meeting on Thursday.
The Sub Divisional Committee, Secretary, Kumar Chamling has appealed all the members of the Morcha, Yuva Morcha, Naari Morcha, parent body and all supporters to attend the meet.
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13 families receive domestic animals
MUKESH SHARMA
Kalimpong, January 23:
The ARD department today distributed domestic animals to 13 families of 33 no constituency. The distribution was done at the office of the constituency sabhasad, Kazim Tshering Bhutia, situated at 8th Mile. The domestic animals included 2 goats, 2 pigs, 9 roosters and 12 hens.
Until now 20 families have received such animals, under which 7 families received the same during the recent Krishi Mela. The main aim for the distribution is to help the poor families to make their living through the animals.
The constituency sabhasad and Dr Zed Bhutia from ARD department were present during the distribution.
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Torch rally by GJYM for Gorkhaland
Darjeeling/ Kalimpong, January 22:
As the dates for decision on Telangana formation is nearing, the political mercury in the hills has once again risen. The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha’s (GJM) 2nd phase of agitation is gradually catching its pace. The whole of the hills today lit up during the ‘torch rally’ of the Gorkha Janmukti Yuva Morcha (GJYM), under the direction of the GJM, its mother organization. The rally reiterated the Gorkhaland demand.
The torch rally at Darjeeling started from Gorkha Dukh Niwarak Sammelan (GDNS) ground and ended at Chowk Bazaar after encircling the main town. All the members of the GJYM were involved in the rally.
Kalimpong too echoed with the Gorkhaland demand during a similar torch rally of the Yuva Morcha which commenced form the Morcha office. The Ward Councilors, members of the Naari Morcha and members of the GJM Sub Divisional Committee partook in the rally.
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Lepcha speaking course completed 10 years
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 22
Few days back a programme at Dhajey which was held under the chairmanship of Unus Laksam Lepcha had OT Lepcha as the chief guest accompanied by Sangey Dorjee Lepcha as the guest of honor. During the programme more than 50 youths were educated on the course. The programme marked with solo songs, plays, dances, songs etc.
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Play staged educating the people
Mukesh sharma
Kalimpong, January 22
A play was staged today at the Kalimpong Girls High school to aware the people on the importance of culture, tradition, the attitude of the political leader toward the innocent people.
This is the 10th time that the play was staged and before it has been staged in different areas of the Hills. Also present in the day was the principal of the school Solomi Sampu Pradhan. The play also educated on the bad affects of alcoholism, the importance of the culture and tradition and to tackle the hard times in the life. How the leaders manipulate the innocent people to fetch votes was also clearly depicted in the play. The youth from Sikkim and Darjeeling took part in the play.
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Postering by CPRM
MUKESH SHARMA
Kalimpong, January 21:
As the dates for the finalization on Telangana formation is nearing, postering is being conducted in the hills demanding Gorkhaland. After the GJM conducted postering few days back, the CPRM too, today followed their lead. The Kalimpong town today flaunted posters which insisted Gorkhaland formation.“Peace will prevail in Darjeeling & Terai- Dooars if Gorkhaland is formed”, reads a poster. “Why this discrimination towards the Gorkhas?”, reads another
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Morcha must not resist those who voice for Gorkhaland- CPRM
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 21:
The Communist Party of Revolutionary Marxists (CPRM) president Kishore Pradhan today said that no party in the Hills should resist another who voices for Gorkhaland. Pointing the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), he said that if the Morcha loves Gorkhaland they should not oppose those parties who agitated for Gorkhaland. Pradhan held that if Gorkhaland has to be achieved, then the GJM must not only be limited to table talks with the oppositions in the Hills but must also be united in the streets. The parties who favor Gorkhaland agitation in the Hills are somehow countered in the Hills, he believed.
Likewise, the CPRM secretary Mohan Poudyal opined that the Gorkhas residing in different parts of the country are facing severe problems as compared to the Hills, as they are in minority. Thus, the demand of Gorkhaland has to be fulfilled under Article 3(A) of the Indian constitution, he said.
“The Telengana demand is younger than that of the Gorkhaland but time and again the leaders of Telengana have stood united, which is vice-versa in the Hills. The leaders here have been quarreling with each other which has to end immediately”, said Poudyal.
He added that for attaining Gorkhaland, all parties of the Hills have to come under one banner.
The CPRM shall voice for Gorkhaland until and unless it is formed”, advocated Poudyal.
The Marxists also carried massive postering drive today in Kalimpong.
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GJYM to hold mass rally on Jan 22 & 24
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 21:
The Telangana topic has raised the political mercury in the hills. As per the directions of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) Central Committee, the Gorkha Janmukti Yuva Morcha (GJYM) has chalked out their programmes in 7 phases. Under this, the GJYM will be carrying out a mass rally on January 22 and 24, 2013.
Informing about the same, the GJYM Kalimpong Committee, Spokesperson, Binay Ghising today asked all the youths to partake in the rally. He notified that the GJM and the GJYM is not staying put regarding the separate state demand. He also denounced the comments received by the GJM and GJYM about getting heating up for Gorkhaland after the Telangana issue came under spotlight.
“The Morcha had never sidelined the Gorkhaland demand and will keep the agitation burning unless it is formed”, said Ghising.
Also a mass public meeting will be held on January 24, 2013 at Kalimpong by the GJM. Focusing the forthcoming meeting a meeting was held at the Morcha Party office today. It mainly discussed at length on how to make the public meet successful. Sabhasads, Ward Councilors, Central Committee members and the members of the GJM Sub Divisional Committee were present during the meet.
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NHPC Teesta, Stage-III, Rambi comes forward to support Winter Football Coaching Camp
Mukesh Sharma
Rambi, January 21
With an aim to promote sports in the Darjeeling hills and to make the game of football much more popular among the local boys, NHPC Ltd., Teesta Low Dam Project, Stage-III, Rambi has come forward to support the Winter Football Coaching Camp undertaken by Mungpoo Divisional Football Academy under its CSR Project “Khel Protsahan”.
Mungpoo Divisional Football Academy was established in 2010 and is affiliated to Kalimpong Veterans Club. Of late the boys of this academy have won the Independence Day Football Tournament 2012 held at Mungpoo. The academy has been established with an aim to promote local football talents. Services of football coaches from Kalimpong & Bloomfields Academy, Darjeeling are being utilized by the academy to train the local youths.
Sports items like Football, Boots, Socks, Leg pad/ Shin Guard, Bibs, Players’ Jersy & Pant set, Goalkeeper Gloves, Players’ Jersy &Pant set, Goalkeeper’s Jersy &Pant set, Cones (for practice) Goalkeeping net etc were provided to the academy by TLDP-III for this Winter Football Coaching Camp.
Teesta Low Dam Project, Stage-III will also provide an honorarium to the two visiting coaches during the winter training camp session.
The sports items were handed over to the Secretary of Mungpoo Divisional Football Academy at the Mungpoo Division Football ground by Pingal Kispotta, Manager(HR), TLDP-III in the presence of players and members of the academy.
N. Bhadra Singh, Manager(Civil) was also present on this occasion.
The officials of the academy expressed their thanks to NHPC Ltd., for its endeavor in promoting sports in the local area of Darjeeling hills.
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Annual convention of the Biswakarma Society
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 21
The Algaraha Biswakarma Society in association with the Rangpo branch conducted Block-II level annual convention at the Rangpo community hall today. The day focused on the important issues of the community. The programme was held under the chairmanship of Tika Ram Gajmer where the MLA from Sikkim Madan Cintury was seated as the chief guest. The guests released a book named ‘Hamro Dristhi’, which is associated with the Biswakarma society. Siwani Biswakarma who performed excellent in the Class X examination and Priya Sapkota in the Class XII were also felicitated during the occasion
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Spacio accident: Body of 3 year old recovered
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 20:
The count of dead of
the Friday night Tata Spacio accident has reached up to seven until now. The 14
member rafting rescue team recovered a body of 3-year-old Nalindi Chettri from
19th Mile, which is around 10 kms away from the accident spot. The
body was then taken to Kalimpong hospital. The deceased is a resident of Melli,
South Sikkim. The search operation for the missing 9 is still on.
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Kabya Saghu organized at Kalimpong
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 20
The Nepal embassy, Kolkata in collaboration with the Upma Publication organized Kabya Saghu, a poetic evening at the Ramakrishna Rangamanch in Kalimpong today.
The evening had the presence of the Nepal ambassador Chandra Ghimirey as a chief guest, director of most backward class, Sikkim Government, TN Sharma, general secretary Krishak Kalyan Sangathan, Bishnu Chettri were present as the guests of honors.
The programme which was held under the chairmanship of renowned poetess Sanu Mati Rai had the presence of poets from Nepal and India. Man Prasad Subba, Mohan Thakuri, Uday Thulung, Remika Thapa, Joy Cactus, Beeru Bangdel, Gyanendra Khatiwara, Sudhir Chettri from the Hills and Manu Manchil, Chandra Ghimirey, Sudip Pakhrin, Chandra Gurung of Nepal were present.
Anchor Bhuwan Khanal at the onset stressed on bringing the poetic talent under one umbrella and to further polish and preserve it. The upcoming poets have to be encouraged and well guided he said. Different poets present on the occasion recited their poems which enthralled the gathering.
Later the Sahitya Akademi Puraskar 2012 winner Uday Thulung, and the Yuwa Sahitya Akademi 2011 winner Kamal Regmi were felicitated. The day also witnessed the release of ‘Akha bahira ko Aasu’ by Manoj Bogati.
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Kalimpong traffic police on their toes
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 20
The Kalimpong traffic police headed by its in charge Praveen Gurung are on their toes to keep strict check on traffic violation in Kalimpong town. They have been stern on those who are uses cell phones while driving, riding two wheelers without helmets. In charge Gurung has also appealed the press fraternity to carry their identity cards while driving as today many of the people may misuse the press board in their vehicles. On the other hand the president of the Press Club Kalimpong, Arun Kumar Rasaily has said that the police are free to take actions against those press authority who violates the law.
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Children delivered 2 drops of life
Mukesh sharmaKalimpong, January 20:
Along with the nation, the children of Kalimpong too took drops of Polio today. The Nursing staffs in the hospital and other Polio booths gave two drops of life to the children. Large number of people brought their children to the Polio booths situated across Kalimpong.
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Play staged on Lepchas
Mukesh sharma
Kalimpong, January 20
A play was staged today depicting the depletion of the Lepcha customs and traditions, the identity, the waning aid from the government and on youth at Lepcha youth hostel at Bombusty.
A total of 10 women presented the play which was scripted, performed by them. It is learnt that the play will be staged in every Lepcha villages. The representatives of ILTA and the Lepcha youth associations were also present on the day.
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‘Gorkhaland a must, if Telengana gets statehood’ says posters in Kalimpong town
MUKESH SHARMA
Kalimpong, January 20
The Gorkhaland agitation has once again caught momentum in the Hills in the stir of the formation of Telengana.
The Gorkha Janmukti Yuwa Morcha under the leadership of Kalimpong Yuwa Morcha spokesperson Binay Ghising today pasted posters all around in Kalimpong town. ‘Gorkhaland should be formed if Telengana gets statehood’ says every poster all around the town.
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Preparation on full-swing for R Day
MUKESH SHARMA
Kalimpong, January 19
Akin to every year this year too, the 64th Republic Day will be celebrated amid pomp and gaiety at Main Road, Kalimpong. The Sub Divisional Officer LN Sherpa in a press conference today appealed one and all to participate on it and to make it a grand success.
The celebration will kick start with walkathon, kite flying and wall painting at the Mela Ground. Likewise the evening phase will be organized at the Town Hall, where a magician from Kolkata shall perform for the school students.
An Under-15 football exhibition match and paragliding is also scheduled in the afternoon. On the other hand the organizing committee has routine a 15 kms long marathon from Algaraha to Kalimpong.
The Sub Divisional Publicity Secretary Mitendra Chettri informed that a sarvadharma prayer will be held in the morning at the Trikon Park remembering the martyrs. After the flag hoisting at the Main Road, March Past and other programmes will kick off.
A programme remembering the martyrs will also be organized in the Town Hall he added. A daylong blood donation camp will be organized on the day said Chettri.
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Overloaded vehicle upshots major road mishap 6 dead, 7 injured, 10 missing
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 19:
Death of 6 passengers, 7 injured and 10 missing has been reported until now after a Tata Spacio vehicle bearing number SK04/J0427 plunged into the River Teesta at 9:45 p.m. on Friday at Badarey Bhir, near Chyan Dara. The passengers in the fatefully overloaded vehicle were returning towards Melli, South Sikkim, after attending the last day of the Triveni Mela. The vehicle skidded off the road and fell 100 feet below. The number of deceased persons is expected to increase. The incident area falls under Rongli- Ronglihatt Thana jurisdiction.
As per the information received from the Police source, the deceased have been identified as Rushali Pradhan (3), Prawas Prasad (22), Lakpa Tshering Bhutia (13), Malati Chettri (32), Manju Chettri and Deepika Chettri.
The dead bodies of Manju and Deepika were recovered by the members of Rangeet- Teesta Rafting Owners Association, near Gail Khola, approximately around 7 kms away from the accident spot.
A 16 year old girl named Lucky was saved luckily on Friday night itself by Kewal Tamang, one of the members of the Rafting Association. Kewal set off to the river on a Kayak boat and saved her.
The 10 missing individuals include, driver Amar Pradhan (40), Rekha Chettri, Nalumbi Chettri, Sanjok Chettri, Upasna Chettri, Subarna Chettri, Sabita Pradhan, Sancha Maya Lama, Manika Adhikari and Doma Bhutia.
Out of the 7 injured, Md. Haroon, Md. Jia Ul and Chandan Thakur have been admitted at Kalimpong Sub Divisional Hospital. Anupam Pradhan (25) and Lucy Chettri (15) have been referred to a hospital at Siliguri. The rest 2, Lucky and Sanjay Prasad are being delivered primary medical treatment at Teesta Hospital.
As per Sanjay, one of the injured, the overloaded vehicle lost control when it was giving pass to another vehicle and even the road was narrow.
“As soon as I realized that we met with an accident, I jumped out of the vehicle”, he told.
The Rafting Association members are on their tips and toes searching for the missing passengers. The closing of NHPC dam is hampering the search operation as the water level is high and stagnant.
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‘Gorkhaland ought to be formed if Telegana gets statehood’ -Dr Chettri
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 19
‘If Telengana is granted statehood, Gorkhaland should also be given’ said the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha spokesperson also the Kalimpong MLA Dr Harka Bahadur Chettri talking to the reporters at Kalimpong today. But at the same time the attitude of the centre government on Telengana formation at present seems cloudy said Dr Chettri. The Gorkhaland demand on the other hand lies under the periphery of the Indian constitution and not outside he added. The State Reorganization Commission has to be impartial in delivering their duties. Talking about the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) Dr Chettri said that it is a provisional system and the GJM accepted it so in future it may be easier for the attainment of statehood. The GJM are of the opinion that the GTA can help in strengthening the agitation for Gorkhaland in the Hills he said. But even the GTA has been puppet in the hands of the central government as many powers of the GTA departments still rest under the hands of the centre. ‘Gorkhaland ought to be formed if Telegana gets statehood’ stated Dr Chettri.
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Srimad Bhagwat Mahapuran at Sindebung
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 19
A Srimad Bhagwat Mahapuran was kicked started today at Lower Sindebung busty, Kalimpong which is being organized by the Sindebung Samaj in collaboration with the Dhurva Sewa Samiti, Kalimpong. The Mahapuran is said to be for the stress free and peaceful life, spiritual knowledge and societal realization. The organizing committee informed that the programme will be carried till January 27. A 5 kms long Kalash Yatra was also organized today which was particip82ated by the people from all walks of life. It encircled the town area and ended at the Puja pandal.
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Hills cry loud for Gorkhaland formation
Mukesh/ Alpha
Kalimpong/ Darjeeling, January 18:
The possibilities of Telangana formation seem to be strengthening the Gorkhaland demand in the hills. The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) after announcing their 2nd phase of the agitation is out on the streets conducting postering.
“The Indian government should form Gorkhaland along with Telangana”, reads a poster loud at the main markets of the hills.
The Morcha has decided to hold a mass public meet at Mela Ground, Kalimpong for the Gorkhaland cause. This is being done as per the orders of the GJM central committee.
The meeting will discuss about the formation of Gorkhaland along with Telangana, informed the Kalimpong Sub Division GJM Secretary, Kumar Chamling today.
Saying that during the Congress’s regime no separate states have formed Chamling opined that the formation of Telangana seems to be vague.
He also advised the oppositions to first talk with the centre before commenting on GJM.
However, in the other hand, the Gorkha Janmukti Yuva Morcha (GJYM), Darjeeling Unit General Secretary, Priyabardhan Rai feels that the centre is serious about the Telangana and it might get formed.
Thus, the GJYM has decided to visit Delhi as soon as possible and meet the Prime Minister, Home Minister, Sushma Swaraj, Nitin Gadkare, Rahul Gandhi and other eminent politicians and highlight the importance of Gorkhaland formation.
The Yuva Morcha has also welcomed its mother organization’s decision of calling on the 2nd phase of agitation. They will be also be partaking in the public meeting to be held at January 20, 2013.
“We are well preparing for the forthcoming programmes linked with the agitation”, said Rai.
He also warned the chances of creating disturbed situation in the hills if onle Telangana is formed.
“If the situation here goes haywire, then the government will be responsible”, he told.
If not the non violent way, let’s take the violent way, is what the Yuva Morcha has planned.
“Our vision is very clear. We want our 100 years old demand to get fulfilled”, the General Secretary said.
Further, commenting on the oppositions, Rai said that during the earlier agitation crimes against women took place and the Police personnel faced worse situations, but the opposition leaders remained silent.
“Now everybody is commenting on Gorkhaland. It does not suit them”, he added.
The youths of the GJM units of the North East, Haryana, Delhi and other states have also been informed about the agitation.
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Kalimpong senior citizens receive their 1st OAP
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 18:
As per the announcement of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) executive chief, Bimal Gurung, the senior citizens of Kalimpong today received their first Old Age Pension of Rs 500/- each. Ashriti Rai (78) and Ran Bahadur Gurung (92) received the amount from the hands of 35 No constituency GTA sabhasad, Sunil Pradhan and 14 No constituency, ward councilor, Mridula Subba, respectively. The pensions were delivered at the elders’ residences. Further, Pradhan also delivered the pension to Durga Prasad Pokhrel (85) of Pokhrel Gaon and Savitri Nepal (90) of Lower Tari Gaon.
Ran Bahadur Gurung, one of the beneficiaries, expressing his gladness over receiving the pension said that this is happening for the first time in his life. He thanked the concerned for the amount.
The pension scheme which is named after Late Kaman Singh Ramu Damu will now be delivered monthly to the senior citizens, informed sabhasad Pradhan. The beneficiaries are being identified from the voters card and age. Those elders who do not receive any pension or do not have any source of income are entitled for the OAP.
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Christian social worker builds crematorium for the Hindus
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 18:
Social work has no barriers and price tags; this has been proved by Sebastian Pradhan. Being a Christian by religion, Sebastian has constructed a Hindu crematorium. Built alongside the Mudum riverbed at the Kataray premises under Pedong Gram Panchayat, the crematorium was inaugurated the religious way today. The area people have now decided to build a temple at the same area.
Before, the people used to perform the cremation rites at the river itself which proved of being inconvenient. Thus, Sebastian, the social worker realizing the need constructed the crematorium with the help of the area people.
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GJM & GRNM insist Gorkhaland formation along with Telangana GJM initiates 2nd phase of agitation, GRNM demands Centre to open fresh dialogue before deciding on Telangana
Darjeeling/ Kalimpong, January 17:
Believing that only Gorkhaland can deliver identity and political security to the Indian Gorkhas, the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) has called on the 2nd phase of Gorkhaland agitation. As an initial step for the same, the Morcha will be holding rally and public meeting at Darjeeling on January 20, 2013.
“The Morcha has already chalked out the agitation programmes. To start off with, we conducted postering today”, informed the GJM Darjeeling Sub Division President, Dawa Lama to the reporters on Thursday.
30,000 posters have been printed in English and Nepali language and postering will also be done at Terai- Dooars region along with the GTA areas.
‘Government must create a separate state Gorkhaland along with Telangana’, reads one of the posters.
Lama further informed that the forthcoming rally will start from Darjeeling Railway Station at 10:30 a.m. and will culminate at Chowk Bazaar after encircling the town. A public meeting will be held at Chowk Bazaar afterwards.
“The main motive for the public meet is to let people know that the 2nd phase of agitation has started”, said Lama.
Despite of formation of Gorkha Territorial Administration (GTA), the Morcha is clear on the Gorkhaland demand.
“GTA is temporary and is done only for the development of the hills, added the Sub Division President.
He also advocated that the GJM President, Bimal Gurung is sincere toward the demand of a separate state.
“Every Gorkhas have laid hope on the President”, claimed Lama.
Likewise, the Gorkhaland Rajya Nirman Morcha (GRNM) has also vouched for Gorkhaland formation along with Telangana. The GRNM on Thursday submitted a memorandum to the Centre Home Minister demanding the formation of Gorkhaland if Telangana is formed.
The GRNM President, Dawa Pakhrin said that they welcome the possibilities in formation of the Telangana state. However, the Gorkhaland demand out runs the Telangana demand and it needs to be granted by the Centre, he added. The GRNM have appealed the Centre for the same.
The memorandum traces the history of the Gorkhaland demand. Highlighting the formation of Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council (DGHC) by the then Gorkha National Liberation Front (GNLF) led by Subash Ghising, the memo states that it was unsuccessful due to inherent defects and no fulfillment of the aspirations of the people.
It also mentions that on March 21, 2005 all the 28 Councilors of the General Council resigned from their elected posts for the creation of a separate state and on December 06, 2005 a memo of settlement was signed between the Government of West Bengal, Government of India and Subash Ghising for granting the 6th Schedule status under Article 244 of the Indian Constitution. However, the passing of the 6th Schedule Amendment Bill 2007 became infructuous due to inordinate delay and it did not fulfill the aspiration of the Indian Gorkhas’.
Likewise, the memo also elucidates about the formation of the GTA by the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM/GJMM) in July 2011.
“This agreement has again let down the entire people of Darjeeling district and Dooars region of Jalpaiguri district”, it states.
The GRNM has further charged the GTA of simply being a development agency similar to the DGHC, which will not fulfill the national identity aspiration of the Indian Gorkhas’.
Thus, the GRNM has requested the Centre to open a fresh dialogue for carving out a separate state before the decision of Telangana.
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Necessitous people receives edible items
Mukesh Sharma
Kalimpong, January 17:
The necessitous people were distributed useful edible items by the Hope Family Trust in Kalimpong, today. Around more than 50 families received rice grains, pulses, sugar, tea leaves, oil, soaps, salt, biscuits, etc. The items were distributed at the Volleyball ground situated at Pritam Road by the hands of the foreign individuals who had donated the items. The member of the trust, Kiran Chettri thanked the individuals for their genuine donations and assured that the trust will continue with its social works in the coming future, too.
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