Is There an Ideological Rift Between TMC and Hill Ally BGPM Over Mandatory State Anthem Singing?
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Synopsis
A significant ideological divide has emerged between TMC and BGPM over the mandatory singing of the State Anthem in West Bengal schools. The BGPM criticizes the directive as an imposition on local culture and autonomy, highlighting the importance of preserving regional identity and traditions.
Key Takeaways
- Ideological Divide: Conflict between TMC and BGPM over mandatory anthem singing.
- Cultural Identity: BGPM emphasizes the importance of Gorkhali and Hindi languages.
- Autonomy Concerns: BGPM argues the directive infringes on school independence.
- Historical Context: GTA's role in preserving cultural heritage in the hills.
- Policy Implications: The need for sensitivity in regional governance.
Kolkata, Nov 8 (NationPress) A notable ideological divide has surfaced between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and its hill partner, the Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM), in response to a directive from the West Bengal government mandating the singing of the State Anthem -- Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol -- during morning assemblies across all state-run and state-aided educational institutions.
The BGPM, which governs the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) — the self-governing body managing civic matters in Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Kalimpong — has raised strong objections to this order on two primary grounds.
Firstly, the party argues that this directive imposes Bengali on students in the hill regions, where the majority of school children communicate in either Gorkhali or Hindi. BGPM leaders believe that this order diminishes the linguistic and cultural identity of the area.
Secondly, they perceive this action as an infringement on the autonomy of schools to establish their own morning prayer customs.
The GTA chief executive and BGPM founder Anit Thapa has stated that the directive will not be enforced in schools governed by the GTA. 'The GTA operates as an independent and autonomous administrative body, thus the state government's order does not extend to schools within the GTA jurisdiction,' he remarked in a statement.
He emphasized the North Bengal hills possess a unique cultural heritage that is rooted in linguistic and religious diversity. 'Every school has its own tradition of prayer and song, which is performed before the national anthem. This tradition remains intact and will persist moving forward,' Thapa added, indicating that the directive overlooks local sentiments.
Thapa reiterated that the inhabitants of the hills have maintained their cultural traditions for generations, and 'in consideration of local sentiments and cultural diversity, it has been decided that the State Anthem will not be performed during prayers in hill schools.'
Established in 2011, the GTA administers the hill regions of Darjeeling, Kurseong, Kalimpong, and parts of Siliguri. The BGPM, allied with the TMC, triumphed in the 2022 GTA elections.
Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol, composed by Rabindranath Tagore, was officially recognized as the West Bengal State Anthem in 2023 through a resolution passed in the Assembly.
Point of View
It's crucial to acknowledge the significance of regional identities within national narratives. The ongoing ideological rift between TMC and BGPM reflects deeper cultural sensitivities and the need for policies that respect local traditions. Each voice in this debate is vital for a harmonious coexistence in our diverse nation.
NationPress
09/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue between TMC and BGPM?
The main issue is the West Bengal government's directive requiring the mandatory singing of the State Anthem in schools, which BGPM argues imposes Bengali culture on non-Bengali speaking students.
What are BGPM's objections to the directive?
BGPM objects on the grounds that it undermines the linguistic identity of the hill region and infringes on the autonomy of schools to choose their own morning traditions.
Who is Anit Thapa?
Anit Thapa is the chief executive of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration and the founder of BGPM, advocating for the cultural rights of the hill communities.
When was the State Anthem adopted?
The State Anthem, Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol, was officially adopted in 2023 through a resolution passed in the West Bengal Assembly.
What is the significance of GTA?
The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration is an autonomous body that governs the civic affairs of the hill regions, ensuring local governance and cultural preservation.
