Darjeeling locals throng Nepal, Bhutan to beat internet ban

The government’s attempts to control communication in unrest-hit Darjeeling hills through an Internet ban, has not brought locals to a standstill as many are crossing into Nepal and Bhutan to access the web.

The bandh for separate Gorkhaland entered its 12th day on Monday, and the internet ban — imposed since June 19 till June 27, Tuesday — is expected to be extended, but locals have found light in neighbours’ networks.

Though no numbers are available, every day dozens of people, including youths, businessmen, and even the unemployed, are walking or riding over for a few hours. A few also have SIM cards from Nepal and Bhutan for use in bordering areas.

Darjeeling is the only district in the country to share borders with three countries — Nepal,

Impatient with the lack of response from both the Centre and the Bengal government on their demand for statehood, Gorkha Janmukti Yuva Morcha (GJYM) leaders have threatened to launch a Telangana-style movement that will include self-immolation

Bhutan and Bangladesh.

There are two check posts on the Darjeeling-Nepal border at Pashupati and Kakarvita that offer almost free access to Nepal. One has to produce a document of Indian citizenship if intercepted by the SSB guards who man the posts. Besides, there are many village roads connecting the two nations.

The access to Bhutan is through Bindu and Todey Tangta and indefinite fast.

“When the state and the central government are not listening to our peaceful agitation, we will be compelled to go for indefinite fast and self immolation to demand statehood,” Prakash Gurung, GJYM president said . PRAMOD GIRI

villages in Kalimpong district. Residents from here visit Tendu, Sipsu and Gempang villages in Bhutan along the border.

“Initially I thought that Internet services would be back in 2-3 days. As the ban was extended, I became restless. But soon, I realised that I can walk 4 km and reach Pashuati Phatak and access Nepal’s internet services,” said Sukman Rai (27), a resident of Simana village.