Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, 20 June extended greetings to the people of West Bengal on the occasion of Paschimbanga Divas, honouring the state's historic significance and praying for its progress and prosperity. Modi posted his message on social media platform X, marking a day he described as being of 'immense significance' in West Bengal's history.

Modi's Message on Paschimbanga Divas

In his post, Modi wrote: 'Warm greetings to my sisters and brothers of West Bengal on the occasion of Paschimbanga Divas. This day celebrates a state that has profoundly shaped India's history through its contributions to diverse areas, be it literature, music, art, spirituality, science, trade and commerce, social reform and more.'

He further noted that 20 June was the day that ensured West Bengal remained an integral part of India, crediting Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee for his 'invaluable' role. Notably, 2026 also marks the 125th birth anniversary (Jayanti) of Dr. Mookerjee, adding additional historical weight to this year's observance.

Centre-State Cooperation Pledge

Modi also pledged that the Central Government would work alongside the West Bengal Government to fulfil the aspirations of the state's people. 'I pray for the progress of West Bengal and the prosperity of its people,' he said, signalling an intent for collaborative governance despite the well-documented political tensions between the Centre and the Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led state administration.

Amit Shah Pays Tribute to Bengal's Legacy

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended greetings, describing Bengal as 'a land rich in culture, spirituality, knowledge, and science' that has made 'significant contributions to nation-building — spanning the Bhakti movement, the freedom struggle, and the Renaissance.'

Shah invoked a constellation of Bengal's celebrated figures — Swami Vivekananda, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, Rabindranath Tagore, Subhash Chandra Bose, and Syama Prasad Mukherjee — and prayed to Maa Durga for the well-being of the state's people.

Historical Significance of 20 June

Paschimbanga Divas, observed on 20 June each year, commemorates the day West Bengal's continued integration with India was secured. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has in recent years elevated the role of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee — founder of the BJP's ideological predecessor, the Bharatiya Jana Sangh — in this chapter of history, using the occasion to reinforce its political and cultural connect with the state.

With the 125th Jayanti of Mookerjee coinciding this year, the messaging from both Modi and Shah carries particular resonance as the BJP continues to expand its footprint in a state it views as a key electoral battleground.