Bista meets interlocutor, supports dialogue on Hill issues

Amid mixed reactions in the Hills over the Centre’s appointment of an interlocutor to address long-standing Gorkha-related issues, Darjeeling MP Raju Bista met Pankaj Kumar Singh, former deputy national security adviser (deputy NSA) and retired IPS officer, who has been designated as the Centre’s representative to carry forward the dialogue concerning the Darjeeling Hills, Terai, and Dooars.

Defying criticism from certain quarters, Mr Bista welcomed the move, describing it as “not just a procedural step, but a reaffirmation of the Centre’s commitment to inclusive governance and national integration.”

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“We remain hopeful that all stakeholders will approach this dialogue with sincerity and cooperation. It is time we move together towards ensuring dignity and progress for our region and people,” Mr Bista said after his meeting with Mr Singh in New Delhi. He also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah for their “continued focus on resolving the region’s long-pending issues.”

Meanwhile, Binoy Tamang, former chief and sabhasad of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), welcomed the meeting, saying he was confident it would “take a positive direction in the coming days.”

“I extend a heartfelt welcome and best wishes to the Interlocutor, Pankaj Kumar Singh, to the Darjeeling Hills, Siliguri Terai, and Dooars,” Mr Tamang said in a statement, also thanking Mr Bista for his efforts.

The appointment of the interlocutor has rekindled hopes for renewed dialogue on the political and administrative aspirations of the Hill people, even as sections of local groups remain sceptical about the Centre’s intent.