Patil tells GJM to resolve demands through talks with WB govt

New Delhi, Jun 24 (UNI) Home Minister Shivraj Patil today asked the Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) to resolve their issue through a peaceful dialogue with the West Bengal Government and assured all possible assistance from the Centre in achieving this.

Mr Patil told this to a four-member delegation of GJM, led by its General Secretary Roshan Giri, which met him here.

The delegation submitted a memorandum in support of their demands in support of which they were protesting in Darjeeling.

Their agitation has affected the tourism in Sikkim and Darjeeling and now also threatens the tea industry of the region.

The Home Minister heard the delegation patiently and emphasised the need to maintain peace and free movement of essential commodities in the region.

He said the dispute should be resolved through dialogue in a peaceful manner with the state. If any co-operation is needed, the Union may help the state and others also if such co-operation is asked for.

Senior officers of the Home Ministry, including the Special Secretary (Internal Security) M L Kumawat were present during the meeting.

UNI AJ AE NS2022