GJM expels 7 of its members for protesting bandh relaxation

Darjeeling, Jun 25 (UNI) The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) today expelled seven of its workers for protesting the outfit's decision to relax the strike to demand separate state till July 5.

GJM publicity secretary Benoy Tamang said, ''Seven of the GJM members have been dismissed for going against our organisation's decision of relaxing the bandh.'' Mr Tamang also held a meeting at Darjeeling Chowrasta and warned the GJM members to respect the leaders' decision and not to go against their organisation and maintain discipline within the outfit.

GJM president Bimal Gurung yesterday announced further relaxation of bandh period till July 5.

The GJM, on Sunday evening, had relaxed its indefinite strike for 60 hours, that began on June 16 demanding a separate state for Gorkhas in Darjeeling.

The relaxation period was to cease this morning.

Mr Gurung, in a public meeting at Chowk Bazar, announced the extension of the relaxation period.

However, he while confirming the GJM's decision, said why the relaxation period was extended was not known to him.

Political sources said pressure from the Centre had forced the GJM to change its course of movement as the Sikkim government and its West Bengal counterpart had been pressing for keeping open the NH 31-A, the main artery of strategic Sikkim state.

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