GJM leader passes away, supporters mourn his death

Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) leader and councilor from Kalimpong, Barun Bhujel passed away at SSKM hospital early on Wednesday morning. 

Bhujel was arrested in June 16^th by police in connection to violence in Darjeeling during the 104 days long strike demanding a separate state of Gorkhaland. He was kept in Siliguri jail till last week. He was suffering from liver and pancreatic ailments, and his medical condition was allegedly neglected by the West Bengal police.

Bhujel complained of ill health and stomach ache while he was in Siliguri jail and was admitted in North Bengal state general hospital. Later his condition deteriorated as he developed several ailments and was taken to SSKM hospital in Kolkata.

Bharat Bhujel, Barun’s father reported that there was a delay in treatment. The authorities ignored his complaints of discomfort and were given painkillers by the hospital in Siliguri.

“Had he (Barun Bhujel) been given treatment at the proper time he would have not died,” said Bharat Bhujel.  

Meanwhile, GJM chief Gurung called on people of the Hills to hit the streets in protest, in an audio message released immediately after Bhujel’s death. “Our brother Barun was one of the first to be arrested by police from Kalimpong. I mourn his death and respect his supreme sacrifice for the fight for Gorkhaland. I offer my condolences to his family members. It was police torture which ultimately led to his death,” Gurung said. He also appeals to observe a day of mourning.

Barun Bhujel’s death was informed to his family around 2:45 a.m. He is survived by his wife and two children.