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Modi Celebrates West Bengal Foundation Day Amid Partition Controversy
On June 20, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi to West Bengal, marking the state's Foundation Day, known as Paschimbanga Divas. In a post on X, Adhikari expressed the people's enthusiasm for the Prime Minister's visit, stating,
“We are delighted to have Hon’ble PM join us to grace the auspicious occasion of ‘Paschimbanga Dibos’ and participate in the grand International Yoga Day event celebrations.”
Modi also took to X to acknowledge the day, praising West Bengal's vibrant cultural and historical contributions to India. He noted its significant role in shaping the nation, saying,
“Warm greetings to my sisters and brothers of West Bengal on the occasion of Paschimbanga Divas. This day celebrates a state that has profoundly shaped India’s history through its contributions to diverse areas, be it literature, music, art, spirituality, science, trade and commerce, social reform, and more.”He emphasized that June 20 marks a pivotal moment in West Bengal's political history, ensuring its place in the Indian Union.
Paschimbanga Divas commemorates the state's unique cultural identity and its legislative formation. The date harkens back to 1947, when the Legislative Assembly debated the partition of Bengal under the Mountbatten Plan. While an initial vote favored joining Pakistan, a subsequent session saw legislators from Hindu-majority districts advocate for remaining part of India, ultimately leading to the creation of West Bengal.
Dr. Rup Kumar Barman, a history professor at Jadavpur University, explained that the decision made on June 20, 1947, was crucial. He stated,
“West Bengal came into existence through the partition following the announcement of the 3 June Plan in 1947. The Assembly’s decision to partition was a defining moment for the state.”Supporters of this day argue it represents the political foundations of West Bengal and a chance to reflect on the historical context surrounding the Partition.
Despite the celebrations, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has opposed marking June 20, citing its association with the trauma of Partition and arguing that no longstanding tradition of observance exists. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has promoted Poila Baishakh, the Bengali New Year, as a more inclusive celebration of the state's identity. Keya Ghosh, a BJP functionary, countered,
“We believe 20 June has its own historical significance and should be remembered as an important milestone in the formation of West Bengal.”
Advocates for recognizing June 20 argue it's essential for future generations to understand the history of West Bengal's formation. Amitava Roy, vice president of the West Bengal BJP, asserted,
“The future generation should learn the history behind the formation of West Bengal and the events of 20 June 1947.”He expressed concern that significant chapters of Bengal's past are often overlooked, emphasizing the importance of this day in reconnecting with history.
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