Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) chief Bimal Gurung on Saturday gave a ‘Bengal, Darjeeling choro’ call as the indefinite strike called by his organisation in the Darjeeling hills, demanding Gorkhaland, entered the 52nd day.
“Bengal, Darjeeling choro (Bengal, quit Darjeeling),” will be the main slogan of the people of the hills on Independence Day, he said in a statement.
“Just as the British exploited and tortured us, the West Bengal government is also doing the same to the people of the hills, Terai and Dooars. Therefore, when we participate in the Independence Day celebrations, we will not only be celebrating our glorious freedom struggle, but also be protesting against Bengal’s rule,” Mr. Gurung said.
Meanwhile, GJM leader Norbu Lama, a close associate of Mr. Gurung, was arrested by the CID on Friday night for his alleged involvement in arson and violence that took place in the hills last month.
“He was arrested in the Bhaktinagar police station area,” a senior official of the CID said.
GJM activists took out rallies in the hills, demanding restoration of Internet services, which have been suspended since June 18, and an immediate withdrawal of policemen from the hills.
