Why June 20 is Declared as West Bengal Day: A Political Controversy Unfolds
In a recent political stir, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has raised questions about the decision to celebrate June 20 as west Bengal Day. This date, as per a letter from the Uttar Pradesh Special Secretary to the state’s Culture Department, has been designated for the observance of Bengali Day across all state raj Bhavans. Banerjee’s inquiry centers on the legitimacy of this date, wich she argues should not overshadow the significance of Poila Boishakh (April 14), the customary Bengali New Year, which the West Bengal government has chosen to celebrate instead.
The controversy traces back to a pivotal moment in history: June 20, 1947, when the Bengal Legislative Assembly voted on the partition of Bengal. Under the leadership of shyama Prasad Mukherjee, 58 Hindu members, including former chief Minister Jyoti Basu, voted to remain in India, while 21 Muslim members opted for Pakistan. This vote,which ultimately shaped the region’s future,has now become a point of contention in contemporary politics. Banerjee argues that the BJP’s push to commemorate this date undermines the state’s autonomy and historical narrative, asserting that the celebration of Bengali identity should be rooted in the cultural heritage symbolized by Poila Boishakh.
As the debate unfolds, it highlights the ongoing struggle for political identity and cultural recognition in West Bengal, reflecting deeper sentiments among its people. The choice of celebration dates not only signifies historical events but also serves as a battleground for political ideologies, making this discussion especially relevant in today’s socio-political landscape.
