GYAN seeks clarification from MP on Interlocutor

The Gorkha Youth Activist Network (GYAN) has written to Darjeeling MP Raju Bista seeking a written clarification on the recent appointment of former deputy national security advisor, Pankaj Kumar Singh, a retired IPS officer, as the interlocutor for addressing the political and constitutional issues of the Gorkha community in the Darjeeling Hills, Terai, and Dooars.

In its letter, GYAN termed the move “significant yet ambiguous,” stressing that any interlocutor process must be legally valid, transparent, and focused on permanent constitutional solutions rather than political management.

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The organisation has raised ten key questions regarding the interlocutor’s appointment and mandate — including under what provision the appointment was made, the scope of his authority, and whether his role includes examining the demand for a separate state of Gorkhaland or merely dealing with administrative arrangements within West Bengal.

GYAN has also sought clarity on the reporting mechanism, consultation process, and inclusion of local stakeholders, along with whether the interlocutor’s findings will be made public and subject to constitutional oversight.

“The Gorkha community has endured decades of symbolic gestures and unfulfilled promises. Before any engagement begins, the Government must clarify the legal basis, objectives, and timeline of this process,” said Birendra Rasaily, chief coordinator of GYAN.

The organisation reiterated that the community would not accept “another round of symbolic politics” and demanded that the Centre commit to genuine constitutional solutions that ensure transparency, accountability, and recognition of the Gorkhas’ historical and political identity.