Darjeeling-Dooars United Development Foundation may take a political form

Hills are curious to know whether the apolitical (DDUDF) Darjeeling-Dooars United Development Foundation will take a political form. DDUDF founder Dr. Mahendra P Lama contested the LS elections as an independent candidate and received full support of the CPRM, AIGL and BGP.


DDUDF) Darjeeling-Dooars United Development Foundation Logo
(DDUDF) Darjeeling-Dooars United Development Foundation Logo
Lama, whose primary agenda is to achieve statehood, was criticised the most by the GJM during campaigning. Now, the poll results, due on May 16, will decide Lama’s future move, which could also mean a change in the structure of the DDUDF. It remains to be seen how Lama tackles his supporters and the organisation. Further, it is more difficult to forecast the DDUDF’s future prospects if Lama were to lose.

It may be recalled that during an election campaign meeting here, DDUDF spokesperson P Arjun had said the DDUDF will transform into a political party and will pursue the statehood movement after the polls.

On being asked for his comments on this, Mirik block DDUDF convener Tilak Rai said internal discussions are going on while hinting an announcement could come after the poll results are out. Clarifying that the DDUDF could likely take the shape of a political outfit, Rai said it will struggle for statehood with the support of the people.

Stressing that the foundation will fight tooth and nail against corruption, he said be it will press for transparency in development projects with both the GTA and the state government.

Rai said, “Even if the TMC or the BJP emerge victorious from Darjeeling, we will ensure proper work is done by the MP. Let the BJP or the Congress or even a Third Front come to power at the Centre, we will keep our struggle for a separate state of Gorkhaland alive as also the inclusion of the region in the North East Council.”

He also said the DDUDF will demand implementation of all central government schemes in the region.

The DDUDF convener also voiced strong resentment towards the recent rape incident in Manipur. He said the foundation stands by the Gorkhas of not only Manipur, but of all the northeastern states. Rai said the DDUDF has already dispatched letters to concerned authorities demanding a judicial probe into the matter. He thanked people for voting for Lama, while appealing to them to remain prepared for a new movement.

Source:EOI

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