Kolkata, Sep 29 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, on Monday, paid tribute to the freedom fighter Matangini Hazra on her death anniversary, emphasizing Bengal's significant role in India's independence movement.

Since her party, Trinamool Congress, commenced a vigorous campaign against the perceived mistreatment of Bengali-speaking individuals in BJP-ruled states, she has been keen on showcasing Bengal's contributions to the freedom struggle.

“On this martyrdom day of Shaheed Matangini Hazra, I extend my deepest respect and tributes to this courageous fighter. Her ultimate sacrifice is a beacon of bravery in our independence history. The erstwhile Midnapore district was a trailblazer in the freedom struggle, with Bengal being the birthplace of the independence movement. Countless brave sons and daughters, including Matangini Hazra, instilled fear in the colonial empire through their passion and valor,” the Chief Minister stated in a social media post.

Connecting this homage to her broader political narrative, Banerjee reiterated the significant contributions made by Bengal and its people to the freedom struggle, a theme she has frequently highlighted amid her campaign against alleged injustices faced by Bengali-speaking individuals in BJP-governed areas.

She also enumerated the initiatives taken by the state government to honor Hazra’s legacy. A statue of the martyr stands at her Alinagar residence in East Midnapore’s Shaheed Matangini Block, and a dedicated museum showcasing her life and artifacts was established in 2022. Banerjee herself inaugurated this museum, which now attracts a steady stream of visitors.

“I inaugurated this museum in 2022, where various personal belongings of hers are displayed. Many people are now visiting this museum. We have also paid tribute to Shaheed Matangini Hazra in our Alipur Museum with great respect,” the Chief Minister added.