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“We welcome tourists during the Pujas and there will be no bandh in that period. If any emergency arises, we will make it public 20 days before,” said GJM chief Bimal Gurung.
GJM general secretary Roshan Giri said, “this human gesture underscores the fact that we are not against tourism.”
The statement is seen as a reaction to the pressure from locals to boost tourism during the Pujas — the movement may lose popular support if tourists shun Darjeeling.
The GJM agitation for a separate Gorkhaland had often caused blockades that hit the tourists hard. On occasions, , the police had to come to their rescue.
In a letter to Gurung on August 5, state tourism minister Manabendra Mukherjee had sought his cooperation to ensure that a tourism-friendly atmosphere was maintained in Darjeeling during in October and November. Terming Darjeeling as one of the most important tourist destinations, Mukherjee had said many tourists visit the area throughout the year and especially during festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali.
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