After extensive deliberation, the state government has reached a monumental decision. Henceforth, the first day of Poila Baisakh will be observed as 'West Bengal Day.' The Bengal Legislative Assembly has granted all necessary permissions for this initiative.
It is reported that on that day, a government event will take place on Cathedral Road in the afternoon, with the Department of Information and Culture overseeing all arrangements and responsibilities.
Sources reveal that the Chief Secretary of the state, Bhagvat Prasad Gopalika, will be the chief guest at the event. However, due to the adherence to the Model Code of Conduct for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the event will not be attended by the Chief Minister of Bengal, several ministers, or political figures.
Last year, in August, the Speaker-appointed committee of the State Legislative Assembly recognised Poila Baisakh as West Bengal Day. Following this, the state government passed a proposal in the assembly, formally designating this day for annual observance as 'West Bengal Day,' issuing a government notification accordingly.
Furthermore, the notification stipulates that alongside the national anthem, the state anthem, 'Banglar Mati Banglar Jal' by the revered poet Rabindranath Tagore, will be performed at any government event.
Previously, the Central Government had declared June 20 as West Bengal Foundation Day. However, due to historical reasons, the state government raised objections to this date. Last year, on June 20, the celebration was held at Raj Bhavan as West Bengal Day, despite objections from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. It was noted that the date symbolized the division of Bengal, and discussions ensued.
Consequently, after further deliberation, the decision was made to observe West Bengal Day on Poila Baisakh, marking a significant milestone in the state's cultural and historical landscape.