GJM vows to attain Gorkhaland within 10 years

Siliguri, May 7 (UNI) Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) supremo Bimal Gurung today vowed to attain the separate state of ''Gorkhaland'' within ten years.

Addressing their first ever rally here, Mr Gurung, however, assured that they would not resort to ''violence'' on the lines of GNLF chief Subash Ghisingh during 1986.

'' Mr Ghisingh has cheated the hill people, but we will not do that, '' he said.

'' While I promise to create a separate state in this region, I need the assurance from the people that they will keep supporting us till end, '' he averred.

'' Ours is a century-old demand and those opposing our movement do not stand a chance, '' he maintained, demanding the arrest of those who tried to prevent the GJM supporters from entering Siliguri on May 2.

Mr Gurung apprehended that in the absence of a King in Nepal, the hilly region of West Bengal had become more vulnerable and only a separate state of Gorkhaland could safegaurd the interests of the people of the region.

Today's meeting saw the participation of the Kamtapur Progressive Party (KPP) leader Atul Ray and Greater Cooch Behar Democratic Party leader Asutosh Burma.

Meanwhile, a massive security blanket was thrown all over Siliguri to prevent any untoward incident during the meeting.

However, no untoward incident was reported, police said.

UNI XC LL SJC SG HT2058