Mamata issues ultimatum to GJM to withdraw bandh

Mamata Banerjee has issued a 72-hour deadline to Gorkha Janmukti Morcha on Saturday to withdraw indefinite bandh in Darjeeling area.

The West Bengal Chief Minister said that she will be forced to take strong action if GJM did not withdraw their bandh by Monday.

Speaking to the reporters in Kolkata, Ms Banerjee said, “Enough is enough. I have tolerated for eight days. I am very rough and tough. I am giving 72 hours to withdraw the bandh. Do not force me to take strong action.”

Mamata ruled out any possibility of bifurcation of West Bengal.

“Darjeeling is part and parcel of West Bengal. Darjeeling is my heart. There can be no division of the state based on race,” Mamata added.

Attacking Bimal Gurung, Ms Banerjee said, “The bandh is being forced on people because some political leaders have become unpopular in the hills and are trying to gain political mileage from the disruption.”

Mamata also asked central government not to interfere in state matter.

“I am also asking some central government agencies not to interfere in the state’s business. Allow us to maintain law and order, peace and prosperity of the state,” she said.

Addressing Darjeeling’s MP and BJP leader Jaswant Singh Mamata said, “Do not try to play mischief for one seat. Do not try break (West Bengal).”

After Congress Working Commmittee decided to split Andhra Pradesh and create separate state of Telangana, the demands of smaller states have increased in many parts of India. In demand of separate state of Gorkhaland an indefinite strike began in Darjeeling from Saturday.

Normal life have been paralysed in the three districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Kurseong for the last 8 days as all shops, markets, schools, colleges, offices, banks, post offices remained closed.

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