Siliguri, West Bengal – Pankaj Kumar Singh, the Centre’s appointed interlocutor for discussions on a permanent political solution for the Darjeeling hills, Terai, and Dooars, arrived in the region yesterday for his first visit, marking a renewed push toward tripartite talks involving the people of the area, the Government of India, and the West Bengal government.
Darjeeling MP Raju Bista welcomed Singh during a meeting, extending traditional hospitality on behalf of the local community.
A retired IPS officer and former Deputy National Security Advisor, Singh brings extensive experience in dialogue and security matters. His appointment in October 2025 has been seen as a step toward addressing long-standing aspirations of the Gorkha community under the Indian Constitution.
In the meeting, Bista emphasized the region’s geopolitical significance, bordering Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan, with China in close proximity, making it vital for national security. He urged Singh to ensure fair, transparent, and equitable discussions free from political biases, with inclusive participation from all stakeholders to renew momentum in negotiations.
Bista expressed optimism about positive engagement from all parties, including the state government, and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for their commitment to resolving regional issues.
This visit is expected to facilitate broader consultations with various groups in the hills.
