New Delhi: Home Minister P Chidambaram on Friday
appealed to the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) to call off its
fast-unto-death agitation and create a conducive atmosphere
for the December 21 tripartite talks.
In a statement, Chidambaram said as the tripartite talks
between the Centre, West Bengal government and the GJM were
scheduled to be held on December 21, there was no need to
adopt an agitational approach on the eve of such dialogue.
"It is necessary that a cordial and conducive atmosphere
is created on the eve of the talks," he said.
The Home Minister said the GJM`s fast-unto-death was
still continuing and he was saddened to learn that several
people observing the strike were suffering from dehydration
and some were hospitalised.
"The deteriorating health of some who are fasting is a
matter of concern to all of us. Hence, I would appeal to the
GJM to call off the fast-unto-death stir immediately and
utilise its time and energy to prepare for the tripartite
talks," he said.
The GJM has been demanding creation of a separate
Gorkhaland state comprising Darjeeling district and its
adjoining areas in West Bengal.
PTI
