The latest blockade in Darjeeling, following the demand for a separate state of Gorkhaland, was called off recently.
However a setback in initiating talks among the stakeholders is delaying a meaningful resolution to the issue.
What causes the delay?
The State government's moves are complicating the peace process.
Besides, there is lack of consensus between the Centre and the West Bengal government on many grounds.
Troops - One of them is with regards to the deployment of troops in the region.
A few days after the strike was called off, the Union Home Ministry intimated the State government of calling back 10 of the 15 companies of the CAPF posted in the hills.
Consequently, the West Bengal CM moved the Calcutta High Court and got a stay.
GJM factions - The moves of the State government suggest that of exploiting the differences within the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM).
Evidently, the State government recently raided the GJM Chief's properties and lodged several cases against him.
It has also issued an arrest warrant against Mr. Gurung and declared him a “proclaimed offender”.
Notably, he was the one who called off the strike after the Centre appealed and offered to talk on the issue.
The State government has also named a rebel leader within the GJM to head the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration.
The CM has also been holding all-party meetings to arrive at a solution, with the GJM represented by the rebel faction.
These actions are clearly fuelling the differences among the GJM factions and delaying the resolution process.
What is desired?
The Gorkhaland stand-off has already taken a heavy toll on the tea and tourism industries of Darjeeling hills.
The Central and State governments need to urgently sort their differences out, and all stakeholders including the GJM factions should adopt a more conciliatory attitude.
Further, holding tripartite talks and meaningfully empowering the GTA would go a long way in restoring peace in the region.
