"Doesn't matter if Governor doesn't sign, Poila Baishak is West Bengal Day" CM declares

West Bengal's Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, announced the state's intention to celebrate "West Bengal Day" on the Poila Baisakh month. This decision came following strong condemnation from the state government regarding celebrations associated with the painful history of the partition of Bengal on a June 20. The proposal to observe West Bengal Day on the first day of Baisakh was submitted by eleven state government ministers in the Legislative Assembly. The proposal sparked a heated argument between the ruling party Trinamool (TMC) and the opposition BJP, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly criticizing the BJP's behavior as "divisive."

While speaking in the assembly, Mamata Banerjee responded to the opposition's call to prevent the governor from signing the proposal, stating that "whether or not the governor signs doesn't matter." She emphasized that her government was elected with the people's support and that they would celebrate West Bengal Day on the first day of Baisakh regardless of the governor's decision. Mamata pointed out that in the 75 years of independence, June 20 has never been celebrated as West Bengal Day due to its association with the partition of Bengal, which has a painful history.

Mamata further explained that the decision to celebrate West Bengal Day on June 20 was unilateral and not in line with the sentiments of the people of Bengal. She emphasized that partitioning Bengal was a deeply painful event that uprooted millions of Bengalis, making it unnecessary to commemorate that day. Mamata mentioned that her government consulted with experts, who recommended various dates, but 99% of them favored celebrating West Bengal Day on the Poila Baisakh.

Further the state anthem was sung for the first time in the assembly today and Banglar Mati Banglar Gaan should be given the status of state music said the CM.