TMC MP Sukhendu Sekhar Ray today wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting the Centre for de-classification of files associated to Netaji and publish a History of Indian National Army 1942-45. (PIB)
With West Bengal Election 2021 on cards, parties in West Bengal are leaving no stone unturned to lure the voters. And when it comes to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, no party desires to let the chance slip from their hands. As quickly as the Centre yesterday announced that it will celebrate Netaji’s 125th birth anniversary as ‘Parakram Diwas’ from this year onwards, the move evoked powerful reactions from opposition parties.
TMC MP Sukhendu Sekhar Ray today wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting the Centre for de-classification of files associated to Netaji and publish a History of Indian National Army 1942-45.
Reacting to the Centre’s announcement, Member of Parliament and TMC leader Derek O’Brien stated that the West Bengal government currently observes Netaji’s birth date January 23 as ‘Subhas Utsav’ given that 2014.
“GoWB observes Subhas Utsav every year on 23rd January in honour of the great son of the soil. The state-level celebrations have been held at Darjeeling since 2014. Mamata Banerjee has been demanding that 23rd January be declared a national holiday in honour of Netaji,” tweeted Derek O’Brien.
While addressing a rally in Purulia yesterday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that the state will celebrate the day as ‘Deshnayak Diwas’ rather than ‘Parakram Diwas’. She stated that some words have unique significance in some states and the words ‘Deshprem’ or ‘Deshnayak’ resonates with the sentiments that Bengal has for Netaji. Banerjee added that Bengal can not run without having Netaji’s thoughts and ideals. She also reiterated her demand that the Centre ought to declare January 23 as a national vacation.
On the other hand, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar termed the move as an eminently deserving gesture.
“A proud moment – a thoughtful and eminently deserving gesture @narendramodi -Government of India to celebrate every year the birthday of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose as ‘Parakram Diwas’ To honour and remember Netaji’s indomitable spirit and selfless service to the nation,” stated Dhankhar.
Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat stated that it is a befitting tribute to Netaji.
“Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose redefined courage and added a whole new dimension to India’s struggle for Independence. So it is only befitting that we honour his contributions and celebrate his Birthday as Parakram Diwas. Thank you PM @narendramod ji,” tweeted Shekhawat.
The year 2021 marks the 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.