The Darjeeling issue is settled: Mamata

Asked about the ‘magic formula’ that clinched the agreement,Mamata,who had earlier said she would solve the Darjeeling problem within three months,said,“It is our heart and good intention. The magic formula for reaching this agreement is development.”

It is understood Mamata Banerjee has agreed to dissolve the Old Hill Council and form a new one.

Announcing Chief Secretary Samar Ghosh would announce details of the nitty gritties,she said,“I have asked him to talk to the Centre so that the agreement can be formalised in Darjeeling where I will be present.”

Asked if a financial package will be given to Darjeeling,she retorted,“Shall I attend a wedding without a gift? We love the people of Darjeeling.”

Later GJM general secretary Roshan Giri told reporters that the transfer of ‘tauji’ or the right over tea gardens and resolution of the problem of casual employees of the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council were reached at the meeting.

Asked about the GJM’s original demand for Gorkhaland,Giri declined to comment.

Today was the second day of the official-level talks in which Giri,four GJM MLAs,the chief secretary and Home Secretary G D Gautama,were present.