But more time and dialogue was needed to restore full normalcy in the region, he added.

“Some people were trying to incite violence in Darjeeling. If the turmoil continued in the hills, it would have affected the process of industrialisation in the state,” Bhattacharjee said.

He added, “There are groups who want to foment trouble in this region. For example, activists of the Kamtapur Liberation Organisation (KLO), who had taken shelter in Bhutan hills, came down to Jalpaiguri. They have, however, been brought under control. Now, Maoists are trying to get a foothold in the region.”

Temporary suspension of the agitation launched by Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM), following Subash Ghisingh’s decision to step down from Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council (DGHC) has brought some relief to the hills, said a district administrative official.

“I still find it hard to believe that Ghisingh gave up so easily,” said a teacher in Darjeeling on condition of anonymity.

Meanwhile, on his return to Darjeeling on Friday, GJM leader Bimal Gurung said: “People in the hills have revolted against Ghisingh. It will be difficult for him to stay in Darjeeling after stepping down.”

Gurung also warned that if Ghisingh was found indulging in any “conspiracy”, he will be responsible for the consequences. Victory processions were taken out in several areas to greet Gurung.

A large number of supporters even turned up at Bagdogra airport to give him a hero’s welcome. Morcha supporters also took out a “funeral procession” of Ghisingh’s effigy.

A state home department official said Ghisingh’s resignation letter was yet to reach the state government.