Bhawanipur, June 20: On the occasion of ‘West Bengal Day‘, Agnimitra Paul, a minister in the West Bengal government, emphasized the historical and emotional significance of this day for the people of West Bengal, particularly Bengali Hindus. She credited Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, the founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, for this momentous occasion.
Paul expressed to reporters, “This is an emotional moment for all of us. Our ancestors always envisioned an independent Bengal and wished to celebrate ‘West Bengal Day‘. This has only been made possible due to the foresight, struggle, and commitment of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee towards the welfare of Bengalis in West Bengal.”
She recounted that the first meeting took place in Tarakeshwar, where the decision was made to partition Bengal post-independence. The plan was to retain the area with a higher Hindu population within India, while the rest would go to Bangladesh (then East Pakistan).
Paul stated, “If Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee had not existed, we would be in Bangladesh today. Our freedom and the preservation of our culture, ideology, and identity are owed to him.”
She noted that her party had repeatedly requested the previous state government to recognize June 20 as ‘West Bengal Day’, as it marks the formation of West Bengal. However, the then-government refused, preferring to celebrate the Bengali New Year instead and disregarding historical significance.
The state minister remarked that the voice of the people of Bengal has finally been heard, and today this historic day is being celebrated. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to attend the event, alongside the Chief Minister. She highlighted that this day serves as an opportunity to remember Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee’s contributions and honor the history of Bengal, which the people of the state hold dear and take pride in.
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