Bishal Lama: 1st Gorkha minister in 5 decades

Darjeeling: For the first time in more than five decades, a Gorkha neta has been inducted into the Bengal cabinet, with BJP MLA Bishal Lama taking oath as a minister of state on Monday. His elevation marks a historic political milestone for the community, as the last Gorkha member to hold a state cabinet berth was the late Deo Prakash Rai in 1971.Analysts say Lama's induction marks a significant moment not only for the Dooars region but also for the wider Gorkha population across north Bengal and Darjeeling Hills."BJP has reposed faith in me by giving me this responsibility. The decision reflects the party's commitment towards our region and its people. Issues like tea garden land rights and development have always been important but ensuring security, dignity and justice for our community is equally crucial. Under the leadership of CM Suvendu Adhikari, I am confident that people of the region will receive the opportunities they deserve," Lama told TOI.After being deprived of adequate representation, a ministerial berth after 55 years shows that attention is finally being focused on the aspirations and concerns of the local people, he said."This position comes with immense responsibility and significant challenges. I will work with complete dedication for the welfare of people. We have struggled for a long time to reach this stage and, in the days ahead, our efforts will be directed towards addressing the needs of the Gorkha community and serving the region," the new MoS said.Lama retained the Kalchini (ST) seat in the 2026 assembly elections, reaffirming BJP's strong presence in the Dooars. He secured 1,14,759 votes, defeating Trinamool candidate Birendra Bara by a margin of 37,843 votes. He was first elected from the constituency in 2021 after defeating TMC's Passang Lama by 28,576 votes.Lama's appointment has also revived memories of Deo Prakash, who remained the dominant political voice in the Hills for nearly a quarter of a century. However, despite his presence in three successive state cabinets, the issue of administrative autonomy for the Hills remained unresolved.Remembering her uncle, 77-year-old Indira Rai, a retired nursing superintendent of Darjeeling District Hospital and a resident of Goody Road, said Deo Prakash dedicated his entire life to public service. "Even after becoming a minister, he never distanced himself from ordinary citizens. People would come to our home from different parts of the Hills with their problems, and he always made time for them," she recalled.Indira said Lama's induction into the cabinet brought back vivid memories of her uncle's era."For the Gorkha community, this is a proud and emotional moment. After such a long gap, another Gorkha neta has found a place in Bengal govt. We hope this representation will strengthen the voice of people of the Hills and Dooars," she said.Deo Prakash passed away in 1981. Following his demise, the influence of the All India Gorkha League gradually declined, paving the way for newer political forces like Pranta Parishad and later the Gorkha National Liberation Front to dominate Hills politics.