What did CM Mamata Banerjee wish for Hindi Diwas?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mamata Banerjee emphasizes respect for all languages.
- The state government has taken steps for the development of the Hindi-speaking population.
- Official recognition for multiple languages has been granted.
- A Hindi University and colleges have been established.
- Government holidays have been declared for cultural events.
Kolkata, Sep 14 (NationPress) On the celebration of Hindi Diwas, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, shared a message on social media highlighting the supportive measures taken by her government for the Hindi-speaking population in the state.
This message comes at a time when her party, Trinamool Congress, is emphasizing a narrative of “Bengalis are in danger,” claiming that Bengali-speaking individuals face discrimination in states governed by the BJP. Many intellectuals aligned with Trinamool Congress have accused BJP-led states of promoting a Hindi-language dominance that undermines Bengali and other regional languages.
Political analysts suggest that the Chief Minister’s statement serves as a balancing act, indicating her and her party's support for the Hindi-speaking community in West Bengal.
“Today marks Hindi Diwas. I extend my warm greetings to all Hindi-speaking brothers and sisters. We celebrate this day annually with great respect. We honor all languages, and since 2011, we have implemented numerous initiatives for the development of Hindi speakers in our state,” Banerjee expressed in her post on X in Hindi (translated).
According to her, in regions where over 10 percent of residents speak Hindi, arrangements have been made to recognize Hindi as an official language.
“Under our administration, we have also acknowledged languages such as Santali, Kurukh, Kudmali, Nepali, Urdu, Rajbanshi, Kamtapuri, Odia, Punjabi, and Telugu as official languages. Additionally, we are promoting the Sadri language,” she added.
She highlighted the establishment of the Hindi Academy in West Bengal as a sign of respect for the language.
“A Hindi University was founded in Howrah, and Hindi-medium degree colleges were set up in Banarhat and Naxalbari. Hindi postgraduate courses are now available in various colleges, and higher secondary examination papers can be accessed in Hindi as well. Students of Rabindra Mukta Vidyalaya can take secondary exams in Hindi,” she noted.
Furthermore, she reminded the public about the West Bengal government's initiative to implement free social security schemes for Hindi speakers and others employed in the unorganized sector within the state.
“During the Gangasagar Mela, we have developed excellent infrastructure in the region. To honor the Hindi-speaking community, the state has declared a two-day government holiday for Chhath Puja. Once again, I wish everyone a happy Hindi Diwas, ” she concluded.