GJM reverses decision, calls indefinite bandh in Darjeeling

DARJEELING: Reversing its decision within hours after the arrival of central forces in the hills, the GJM today said it took a 'hard decision' for an indefinite bandh in Darjeeling from Saturday to demand a Gorkhaland state on the lines of Telangana.

Accusing the West Bengal government of trying to 'crush a democratic movement', GJM leader Harka Bahadur Chhetri said "We had to take a hard stand."

He said "There will be indefinite bandh in the hills from August 3. There will be no relaxation.

"The bandh will be withdrawn on August 15 and continue again from August 16 bandh till a new programme is announced," he said.

Earlier in the day, GJM general secretary and spokesman Roshan Giri had said that in view of Eid, the GJM would give some relaxation and the shut down would be for 96-hours.

GJM President Bimal Gurung said that the Morcha would intensify its movement for a separate Gorkhaland as per the wishes of the hill people.

"There will be hardship, but our movement will continue," he said.

On the arrival of central forces in the hills, Gurung said, "Let the security forces come. The forces had come earlier also. We will launch our movement in a democratic way."