Amit Shah Commits to Constitutional Resolution for Gorkha Issue, Rejects Bengal Division
Union Home Minister Amit Shah made a significant declaration on Tuesday, stating that the long-standing Gorkha issue will be addressed through constitutional means without partitioning West Bengal, provided the Bharatiya Janata Party secures office in the state. This announcement marks a notable departure from the previous stance of several Bengal BJP leaders who had expressed support for the creation of a separate Gorkhaland state.
Shift in BJP's Position on Gorkhaland
During a rally in Gangarampur, South Dinajpur, Shah directly addressed the Gorkha community, emphasizing a commitment to both development and political resolution. "I want to assure my Gorkha brothers in Darjeeling that a BJP government will not only establish an eco-adventure hub in the Hills but will also resolve the Gorkha issue constitutionally, ensuring the state remains united," Shah proclaimed. Earlier in the day, he clarified to the media that the formation of Gorkhaland is not on the BJP's agenda, reinforcing the party's focus on a unified approach.
Shah also launched a sharp critique against what he termed the 'tukde tukde gang', accusing them of attempting to fragment Bengal through the strategic Siliguri Corridor. This rhetoric underscores the BJP's emphasis on national integrity and state unity amid regional political tensions.
BJP's Electoral Promises and Gorkha Support
The BJP's manifesto for the 2026 Bengal assembly elections includes key pledges aimed at addressing regional aspirations. It promises official recognition of the Gorkha identity and the inclusion of the Rajbanshi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. In a show of political alignment, the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha, led by Bimal Gurung, has offered unconditional support to BJP candidates in Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Kalimpong. This backing is driven by the pursuit of a "permanent political solution" for the Hills, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the party and regional groups.
Comprehensive Development Vision for North Bengal
In his series of three rallies across Bengal, Shah outlined an ambitious development agenda for north Bengal, aiming to boost economic growth and infrastructure. He detailed plans to establish four industrial parks, a semiconductor manufacturing facility, and four industrial townships in the region. Additionally, Shah pledged that a BJP-led government would initiate construction of an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in north Bengal within two months of taking office, alongside a 600-bed cancer hospital to enhance healthcare access.
Further addressing socio-economic concerns, Shah promised land ownership rights for tea garden workers, a move intended to empower marginalized communities and stimulate agricultural and industrial sectors in the area.
Corruption Allegations Against Trinamool Congress
Shah did not hold back in his criticism of the ruling Trinamool Congress, accusing them of rampant corruption. "When the central government allocated Rs 100 crore for flood relief, Trinamool members allegedly misappropriated the entire amount. We will ensure accountability for every penny taken," he asserted. This accusation forms part of the BJP's broader strategy to highlight governance issues and rally public support against the incumbent administration.
He also targeted Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over the expulsion of Humayun Kabir, describing it as a political maneuver. "Banerjee expelled Kabir to deceive the public. They are attempting to construct a Babri Masjid through Kabir, but no such divisive structure will be allowed in Bengal," Shah stated, drawing parallels to historical religious tensions to underscore his point.
Advocacy for Women's Reservation
Beyond regional issues, Shah reiterated the BJP's support for women's reservation, posting on social media platform X that the proposed bill is "the need of the hour." This endorsement aligns with the party's national agenda of promoting gender equality and political representation, adding a broader social dimension to his campaign rhetoric in Bengal.
The statements and promises made by Amit Shah reflect a strategic blend of regional problem-solving, developmental initiatives, and political critique, positioning the BJP as a contender focused on unity, progress, and accountability in West Bengal's evolving political landscape.
