Remarks on MoS by Dr. Mahendra P Lama

Darjeeling; Darjeeling hills requires three things, peace, development and democracy, which Darjeeling lacks. Tripartite agreement or ‘Memorandum of Settlement’ for Darjeeling hills, has not included the provisions to progress on these regards.

Sixth Schedule is very much beneficial for us. This will provide constitutional guarantee to DGHC, which I had told in 1989-90.  But even after the constitutional recognition of DGHC, if the system remains like this on economic, social and political development, what is our benefit?

The management and benefits of Darjeeling hills as per Sixth schedule, mentioned such a way in tripartite agreement, I do not see any that will put forward the Darjeeling hills.

Expectant escape from the Bengal’s colony and bondages has not been mentioned at all.  If Darjeeling hills includes in the Sixth Schedule, based on this tripartite agreement, Darjeeling hills would be pushed back to 1947.  If we are to go back 1947, significant of 80’s deadly agitation will be lost. The hill people should consider seriously.


Above mentioned opinions by Dr. Mahendra P Lama, (economist and professor of Jawahalal Nehru University, Delhi) member of ‘Expert Committee on Planning for Sixth Schedule areas’, on his recent 3 days visit to Darjeeling.

Tripartite agreement or Memorandum of Settlement between Government of India, Government of West Bengal and Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council for creating a New Council for the Hill areas of Darjeeling District, under the Sixth Schedule of Constitution of India, is in our site:

Sections - Sixth Schedule - issues