Gorkhas fast for their rights in West Bengal

Kurseong (West Bengal), Feb.14 : At least 100 activists of the newly formed Gorkha Jana Mukti Morcha (GJMM) are sitting on hunger strike since last Thursday (Feb.7) demanding a separate State for Gorkha community.

The hunger strike, claimed to be fast unto death, is being observed at three different Sub Divisions--Darjeeling, Kurseong and Kalimgpong, the fast unto death strike's main objective is the creation of "Gorkhaland".

Leaders of the Gorkha Jana Mukti Morcha are scheduled to meet the Chief Secretary of West Bengal to discuss the matter.

"They are observing hunger strike and have appealed to the District Magistrate. They have had a meeting in which the Chief Secretary and the State Government have agreed to discuss on their demands. It is definitely a problem and is concerning people who are on hunger strike. From today they have shut down the offices," said Diptender Das, Sub-Divisional Officer, Kurseong.

Many of the strikers have reported deterioration in health and many others are under medical observation.

Meanwhile, supporters of the Gorkha Jana Mukti Morcha have brought all activities in the hills to a standstill. They are picketing in front of all the State and Central Government offices in the region.

"We are sitting on strike for our people. Also we are supporting this for our future generation to come. The strike is for the Gorkha issue and even if I lose my life it won't matter. I have lakhs of people and children to take the cause further," said Deepa Chettry, one of the hunger strikers and a member of Gorkha Jana Mukti Morcha.

ANI