West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari today said that the long-pending issues of the Gorkha community in Darjeeling Hills would be resolved within the constitutional framework of India. Addressing a public rally at Kurseong in Darjeeling district, he said alleged corruption in the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration would be investigated and action taken against those found guilty.

The Chief Minister, on his first visit to Darjeeling Hills after assuming office, said his government is committed to the development of the hill region. He announced that short-term and long-term development plans for the hills would be reflected in the upcoming state budget session beginning on the 22nd of this month.

Mr Adhikari said efforts would be made to reopen 25 closed tea gardens in Darjeeling Hills and the Terai-Dooars region under the Pradhan Mantri Chaya Shramik Yojana. He also announced plans to establish a medical college in Kalimpong and a major hospital in Kurseong. He said infrastructure, tourism and sports facilities in the hills would be strengthened to boost employment and improve livelihoods. The Chief Minister also inspected a Jan Kalyan Camp and distributed benefits under various welfare schemes.