DARJEELING, : Amid criticism from various quarters over the Bengal government’s decision to allow 30% of tea garden land to be used for non-tea purposes, Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM) president Anit Thapa today claimed that the State government has assured him no such steps would be taken in Darjeeling.
“I raised the issue with the State chief secretary and spoke to the Bengal Chief Minister over the phone, informing them that this decision goes against the wishes of the people here. I explained that tea gardens are Darjeeling’s heritage and visitors come mainly to experience their greenery, not large constructions. This is why homestays are in demand,” said Thapa, who is also the chief executive of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA).
“I am thankful that they have understood the concerns and assured me that no such action will be taken. As of now, no official notification has been issued,” he added.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had announced the decision during the Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS) on February 5.
“I will not go against the people, but that does not mean I will take to the streets in protest. Instead, we must engage with the government and convey the people’s concerns, which I have done before any official notification is issued,” Thapa stated.
“However, if private investors come here and attempt to uproot any tea bushes, I will be the first to stand against it,” he asserted.