GTA Employees Submit Memorandum to State Chief Secretary Over Service and Security Concerns
Darjeeling, February 18 2026 — A delegation representing employees of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has approached the West Bengal government seeking urgent intervention on long-pending service-related issues. The group met the state’s Chief Secretary at the headquarters in Kolkata and submitted a detailed memorandum outlining demands related to job security, regularisation, promotions, salary structure, and retirement benefits.
The move comes amid continued discussions about administrative reforms and employee welfare within the autonomous body governing the Darjeeling hills. Employee representatives said they are seeking structured policy measures to ensure long-term stability and clarity in service conditions.
Delegation Led by Rajesh Chauhan
The delegation was led by Rajesh Chauhan, Deputy Chairman of the GTA Employees’ Organization. According to representatives, the initiative was undertaken following guidance from GTA Chief Executive Anit Thapa, with the aim of resolving issues through institutional dialogue rather than confrontation.
Officials familiar with the development said the memorandum focuses on strengthening service protections for employees who have been working under the GTA framework for several years without formal regularisation or clear career progression pathways.
The delegation urged the state government to prioritise administrative facilities and employee welfare measures, stating that clarity in service rules would improve morale and operational efficiency within the GTA.
Key Demands Raised in Memorandum
Service Security and Regularisation
One of the primary demands concerns the regularisation of long-serving employees. Representatives argued that many staff members have been working for extended periods under contractual or temporary arrangements without clear confirmation of permanent status.
They called on the state government to frame and implement policies that ensure job security and formal recognition of service tenure. According to the delegation, regularisation would not only secure employees’ futures but also contribute to institutional continuity.
Promotions and Career Advancement
The memorandum also highlights the absence of structured promotion policies. Employees reportedly face stagnation due to unclear guidelines on performance evaluation and upward mobility. The organization requested transparent and time-bound mechanisms for promotions based on merit and seniority.
Such reforms, they argued, would strengthen internal accountability and encourage professional growth.
Salary, Allowances and Retirement Benefits
Another major issue raised relates to salary parity and allowances. Employee representatives have sought revision of pay structures in line with state government norms where applicable. They also requested clarity on retirement benefits, pension schemes, and post-retirement security measures.
According to the delegation, ensuring financial security for employees nearing retirement is essential to maintaining administrative stability in the hills.
Commitment to Dialogue and Good Governance
In its communication to the Chief Secretary, the organization expressed its willingness to work collaboratively with both the state government and GTA leadership. The memorandum emphasized transparency, stability, and good governance as shared objectives.
“We are committed to resolving these issues through constructive dialogue and cooperation,” a representative of the delegation said. “Our aim is not confrontation, but long-term institutional strengthening.”
Observers note that the GTA, formed as an autonomous administrative body for the Darjeeling hills, has faced periodic challenges related to staffing structure, financial allocation, and coordination with the West Bengal government. Employee-related concerns have been a recurring theme in governance discussions over the years.
Administrative Context in Darjeeling Hills
The GTA plays a central role in managing local governance functions in the Darjeeling region, including education, health services, infrastructure, and rural development. However, questions regarding funding patterns, recruitment policies, and service rules have often required coordination between the autonomous body and the state administration.
Experts in public administration point out that clear service regulations are vital for effective governance in autonomous councils. Uncertainty in employment conditions can impact productivity and service delivery at the grassroots level.
The recent memorandum is seen as part of a broader effort to align GTA’s administrative framework more closely with state-level service norms while maintaining its autonomous character.
State Government’s Expected Response
As of now, there has been no official public statement from the Chief Secretary’s office regarding the timeline for addressing the demands. However, government sources indicate that such memorandums are typically examined by relevant departments before policy decisions are taken.
Political analysts suggest that resolving employee grievances could have wider implications for administrative efficiency in the hills. Stable service conditions may contribute to smoother implementation of development projects and welfare schemes.
At the same time, fiscal considerations and legal frameworks governing autonomous bodies will likely influence the pace and scope of any reforms.
Looking Ahead
The GTA Employees’ Organization has expressed hope that the state government will take “positive steps” to safeguard the future of long-term employees. For many staff members, the issue extends beyond salary concerns to include professional dignity and long-term security.
As discussions continue between GTA leadership and the state administration, the outcome of this memorandum could shape the administrative landscape of the Darjeeling hills in the coming years. A balanced approach that addresses employee welfare while ensuring financial sustainability will be key to strengthening governance and public trust in the region.
