Kolkata, 7 August (H.S.) -
Ahead of World Adivasi Day on August 9, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday inaugurated the state-level celebrations with a vibrant cultural event at Jhargram Stadium. The four-day festival, organized by the state government, aims to celebrate and honour the rich culture, traditions, and rights of tribal communities.
In a rare public display, Banerjee took to the stage in an energetic and engaging manner — playing the traditional tribal drum madal and dancing to indigenous rhythms. She also interacted warmly with local residents, even lifting a child in her arms before stepping onto the main stage.
State Minister Birbaha Hansda, who belongs to the tribal community herself, accompanied the Chief Minister during the event. A large number of beneficiaries were also handed out benefits under various state welfare schemes by Banerjee.
Addressing the gathering from the main stage, the Chief Minister launched a scathing attack on the central government over the proposed implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC). “We will never allow NRC to be implemented in Bengal,” she declared emphatically. Without naming Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Home Minister Amit Shah, she questioned, “Can those making these laws themselves produce their birth certificates?”
The World Adivasi Day is observed annually on August 9 to recognise and protect the cultural identity, language, and rights of indigenous communities worldwide. This year, the Jhargram celebrations are being held on a much larger scale, with Chief Minister Banerjee herself leading the initiative, underscoring the state’s commitment to its tribal population.
Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh