Guv Ravi asks all state and private varsities in Bengal to observe August 14 as 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day'
Kolkata, Aug 9
West Bengal Governor R.N. Ravi has called upon all state and private universities in the state to observe August 14 as 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day'.
A statement issued by the Lok Bhavan on Sunday said, "Governor R.N. Ravi has called upon all state and Private Universities in West Bengal, along with their affiliated colleges and institutions, to observe August 14 as 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day', bringing students, faculty members and parents together to remember the horrors of Partition and its profound impact on Bengal."
The Bengal Governor said that the observance will help the younger generation understand one of the darkest chapters of the country's national history.
"Bengal bore the worst horrors of Partition, with millions facing displacement, loss of precious lives and livelihoods, and profound social, cultural and economic disruption. The observance will help our younger generation understand one of the darkest chapters of our national history-the horrors of Partition, the immense suffering of those who lived through it, and the forces that led to it-and remain vigilant against forces that seek to divide us," the statement said.
It may be noted that the Bharatiya Janata Party government in the state has already announced the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' programme on the occasion of Independence Day on August 15.
The West Bengal government has organised a special march on the occasion of the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' programme on Monday.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari will take to the streets on the Independence Day and it is believed that about 10,000 students may be present there.
According to sources, although the entire plan is under the supervision of education department, practically all the responsibility has been given to Calcutta University.
It has been asked to encourage students for the programme by meeting with various colleges authorities.
On that day, a gathering will be held near Akashvani by 10 a.m. The procession will start after 1 p.m. till the Victoria Memorial.
Chief Minister Adhikari will join the procession.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While I appreciate remembering the past, isn't it a bit political? The timing just before Independence Day feels like a way to counter the TMC government's 'Har Ghar Tiranga' event. Both sides are playing politics with history. Let's just remember the victims sincerely without using it for political mileage.
This is a much-needed step. The Partition of Bengal in 1947 was one of the most tragic events in our history. Too many lives were lost, too many families broken. Our youth should know what happened so they never take peace for granted. Sad that the state government seems to be ignoring this call. 🙏
I studied history in college and the Partition of Bengal is still not adequately covered in our textbooks. We need to teach the human side of it - refugee camps, lost homes, the emotional trauma. I hope universities do more than just host a one-day event. Let's have seminars, exhibitions, oral history projects. That would be more meaningful.
Classic political move. The Governor is just trying to create a distraction from the TMC government's development work. Yes, Partition was terrible, but why not observe it throughout the year? Why just one day? And why universities specifically? It's all about the optics. But let's see, if it genuinely educates students, I'm not against it. 🤔
My grandfather moved from Dhaka to Kolkata during the Partition. He always said that Bengal never healed from the wounds. It's heartening to see the Governor remembering this. But I wish the state government would also cooperate instead of making it a confrontation. History should unite
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