DARJEELING, : Darjeeling MLA Neeraj Zimba has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, appealing for urgent intervention in addressing two long-standing aspirations of the Indian Gorkha community: the grant of 6th Schedule status to Darjeeling Hills and inclusion of left-out Gorkha communities in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list.
In a press release issued today, Zimba said that the letter, dated January 17, was written with immense faith in the Prime Minister’s visionary leadership.
“The letter recalls the historic 2005 tripartite agreement signed under the statesmanship of the late Subash Ghising, which envisioned the inclusion of Darjeeling Hills under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. Despite cabinet approval and support from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs, this promise was derailed due to political interference and misinformation,” Zimba said in the letter. He emphasized that revisiting this commitment is essential for ensuring political stability, socio-economic progress and cultural preservation in the region.
Speaking about the second issue highlighted in the letter, Zimba said, “The appeal reiterates the demand for constitutional recognition of 11 left-out Gorkha communities in West Bengal and 12 in Sikkim under the Scheduled Tribes list. This recognition is vital for safeguarding their socio-economic future and preserving their heritage.”
Zimba also highlighted the unwavering patriotism of the Indian Gorkha community, which has consistently contributed selflessly to the nation's defense and maintained harmony in strategically significant regions like Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Terai and Dooars.
“The letter underscores the sacrifices of the Gorkhas, who have always stood as loyal sentinels of Bharat Mata, both in times of war and peace. I have expressed deep confidence in the Prime Minister's commitment to justice and inclusivity, as demonstrated by his successful resolution of complex issues like the Naga peace process, the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir, and the empowerment of marginalized communities such as the Bodos and Mizos,” Zimba noted.
“By addressing these aspirations, the PM can pave the way for a brighter and more equitable future for the Indian Gorkha community, fulfilling the promise encapsulated in his heartfelt words, ‘Gorkha ka sapna, mera sapna’,” Zimba added.
