The Gorkha Rashtriya Congress (GRC), led by Bharat Dong, has issued a one-month ultimatum to both the Sikkim and Indian governments, demanding action on the long-standing call for Darjeeling’s merger with Sikkim or statehood for the region. The deadline, set for February 7, 2025, intensifies the debate surrounding Darjeeling’s political future. Dong, in his statement, accused the Sikkim government of stalling the merger, a demand that has been central to the GRC’s platform since its formation in 2004. He emphasized Darjeeling’s historical ties to Sikkim, claiming, “Darjeeling was never part of West Bengal.” Dong argued that Darjeeling was leased to Bengal in 1905, following Sikkim’s agreement in 1835, and was unfairly transferred to West Bengal after India’s independence, despite competing claims from India, Pakistan, and China.
The GRC points to the 1918 law formalizing Darjeeling’s inclusion in West Bengal, which was repealed in 2018, but claims that no substantial steps have been taken to address the region’s administrative status. Dong also criticized local politicians, calling them “brokers” who exploit the issue for personal gain. “If no action is taken by February 7, we will demand a separate country. Darjeeling is neither a part of West Bengal nor India,” Dong warned, highlighting the potential for escalation.The GRC has consistently advocated for the merger of Darjeeling with Sikkim, citing cultural and historical connections. Dong blamed Sikkim’s leadership for hindering the progress of the merger, stating, “Sikkim’s reluctance to integrate Darjeeling has been a significant obstacle.” He also criticized public misinformation and political leaders from both regions for their role in delaying the process.
Pointing to Darjeeling’s colonial history, Dong emphasized its distinct identity and the region’s long-standing neglect by the central government despite repeated petitions for a resolution. “We have waited 23 years since our party’s formation, and yet no solution is in sight,” he said, asserting, “If Gorkhaland is unattainable, we will not accept the current status under West Bengal. Our land belongs to us, and we will fight for it.”
