16/12/2025
*Office of Raju Bista*
*Press Release*
*16th of Dec, 2025*
Speaking in support of the "Repealing and Amending Bill, 2025" in the Parliament today, I highlighted how this legislation is an important step towards keeping India’s statute book clean, coherent, contemporary, and citizen-friendly. I underlined that the Bill does not create new laws; rather, it repeals or amends enactments that have become obsolete, redundant.
I then took the opportunity to highlight the Absorbed Areas (Law) Act, 1954, enacted by the then Congress Government. This law extended the implementation of West Bengal state laws to the Darjeeling hills, Terai, and Dooars. Prior to this, our region was earlier governed under special administrative regimes such as Non-Regulated Areas, Scheduled Districts, and Partially Excluded Areas. While this Act formally integrated our region into West Bengal’s legal framework, the people of these areas are still waiting for justice and equality.
I informed the Parliament that the Constitution of India guarantees equal rights, dignity, and justice to every citizen. Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, this constitutional promise of “nyay” has reached even the most neglected regions of the country, reflecting the spirit of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas". However, the people of Darjeeling hills, Terai, and Dooars continue to wait with hope for a just solution that respects their identity, aspirations, and constitutional rights.
I placed on record that the Central Government has shown sincere intent to resolve the long-pending issues of our region. The appointment of an interlocutor demonstrates the Government’s commitment to dialogue and peaceful resolution.
I further highlighted the multiple challenges faced by our region. Rapid demographic changes due to cross-border infiltration, have made indigenous people minorities in their own land, alongside unchecked exploitation of our natural resources. Acute lack of development, connectivity, economic progress, and lack of livelihood opportunities for our youths.
I informed the Parliament that arrangements like DGHC or GTA have failed to address these concerns. A permanent solution under the Constitution for our region is the only way forward, and that it be done in a timely manner.
*Raju Bista*
*Member of Parliament, Darjeeling and*
*National Spokesperson, BJP*
