The observance of 'Pashchimbanga Divas' in West Bengal has become a flashpoint between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC), with recent events highlighting the deep political divide over the state's foundation day. On Friday, June 20, 2025, the BJP accused the Kolkata Police of obstructing their rally to commemorate 'Pashchimbanga Divas,' while the TMC dismissed the celebration as a forced imposition.

West Bengal BJP President Sukanta Majumdar alleged that the police halted the party's two-wheeler rally, which was intended to proceed to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's house on Elgin Road. According to Majumdar, despite assurances that the rally would only carry the national flag, police intervention occurred, leading to the arrest of several BJP workers. He accused Mamata Banerjee's administration of directing the police to prevent the event, further intensifying the ongoing feud between the two parties.

The BJP observes June 20 as 'Pashchimbanga Divas' to commemorate the 1947 Bengal Legislative Assembly vote that led to the state's partition. This date, according to the BJP, is a historic day that must be commemorated, as it signifies West Bengal's decision to remain in India. Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari has been a vocal advocate for recognizing June 20 as the official statehood day, emphasizing the importance of remembering the events that shaped West Bengal's identity. In the past, Adhikari has organized processions from the assembly complex to Shyama Prasad Mukherjee's statue, highlighting the significance of the day.

Conversely, the TMC-led government has designated Poila Baisakh, the Bengali New Year, as West Bengal Day. The TMC argues that 'Pashchimbanga Divas' lacks a genuine connection with the people and accuses the BJP of attempting to impose an unspontaneous celebration. The TMC views Poila Baisakh as a more inclusive and culturally relevant occasion to celebrate the state's foundation.

This difference in opinion has resulted in a political tug-of-war between the two parties for the past two years. The BJP has accused the TMC of trying to erase or rewrite Bengal's origins by not recognizing June 20. The BJP leaders have asserted that any attempt to undermine the historical significance of June 20 would be met with resistance.

The BJP's stance is that June 20 holds historical significance as the day the Bengal Legislative Assembly voted in favor of staying in India, a decision spearheaded by Shyama Prasad Mukherjee. The party emphasizes that this day represents a commitment to nationalism and the desire to bring the state forward. In contrast, the TMC's choice of Poila Baisakh aims to promote a more inclusive celebration that resonates with the cultural identity of Bengal.

The clash over 'Pashchimbanga Divas' reflects the broader ideological differences between the BJP and the TMC. The BJP's emphasis on June 20 aligns with its narrative of national integration and historical remembrance, while the TMC's focus on Poila Baisakh underscores its commitment to cultural identity and regional pride. As the political battle continues, the people of West Bengal are caught in the middle of a debate over which day truly represents the state's foundation and identity.