The latest directive from the West Bengal government, articulated by Chief Secretary Harikrishna Dwivedi, mandates the inclusion of the 'State Song' at the commencement of all state events. This novel norm, requiring every participant to stand and sing along during the anthem, was officially introduced through Dwivedi's order.
The decree further stipulates that 'Poila Boisakh,' marking the first day of the Bengali New Year, will now be observed annually as the state day with due 'respect and dignity.' The chosen anthem, 'Banglar Mati Banglar Jal,' composed by Rabindranath Tagore, has been officially designated as the 'State Song.'
In his official order, the Chief Secretary elaborated, "The necessity for the declaration of 'State Day' and 'State Song' has been felt for a considerable time, considering the rich glory, culture, and heritage of the State of West Bengal. Now, after careful consideration, it is hereby declared that 'Poila Boisakh' will be observed as the 'State Day' and will be named Bangla Diwas."
As per the directive, the 'State Song' is to be sung at the onset of all state government programs, lasting precisely one minute and fifty-nine seconds. Additionally, the national anthem will be performed after the ceremony, with all attendees required to stand and participate in both renditions.
This initiative follows a proposal brought forward by the Trinamool Congress-led government in Bengal to the state assembly last September, focusing on the state anthem and state day. The proponents of this proposal included notable figures such as Asis Banerjee, Firhad Hakim, Bratya Basu, Chandrima Bhattacharya, Sushil Saha, Birbaha Hansda, Satyajit Burman, Kalipada Mandal, Biswajit Das, and Krishna Kalyani.
Additionally, the state BJP has designated June 20 as West Bengal Day, commemorating the historical decision on that day in 1947 when the partition of Bengal was decided in the Bengali Provincial Legislature's voting. This partition resulted in Bengal being divided into East Pakistan and West Bengal, with the latter being included in India. The former eventually became Bangladesh, seceding from Pakistan and attaining sovereign status in 1971.
