Kolkata, 16 August (H.S.) — West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday evening attended the traditional Independence Day tea reception hosted by Governor Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose at Raj Bhavan. The event, a long-standing custom, serves as a formal occasion for the state’s administrative and constitutional heads to meet on Independence Day.

Banerjee arrived at the Governor’s House around 5 p.m., accompanied by Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee, Chief Secretary Manoj Pant, and Home Secretary Nandini Chakraborty. Shortly after, Left Front Chairman Biman Bose and senior Congress leader Pradip Bhattacharya also attended the gathering at the Governor’s invitation.

Leaders from across the political spectrum exchanged greetings in a cordial atmosphere. As in previous years, the reception drew prominent figures, including renowned singer Usha Uthup. Governor Bose and his wife personally welcomed the guests.

In his address, Governor Bose paid tribute to the sacrifices of India’s freedom fighters, stating, “This day is not only for celebration but also a reminder of our duty toward the nation.”

Speaking to the media after the event, Chief Minister Banerjee emphasized unity over politics, saying, “Independence Day belongs to all of us. There should be no place for political differences on this day — it is a day of unity.”

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh