The Mamata Banerjee-led government of West Bengal, under the banner of Trinamool Congress, has announced April 17th as a public holiday to commemorate Ram Navami. This marks a significant departure from their previous stance since assuming power in 2011.
As per the notification released by the state government, all non-essential services, including state government offices and affiliated organizations, will remain closed on April 17th, honoring the occasion of Ram Navami.
Recent years have witnessed instances of violence during Ram Navami processions in West Bengal. Last year, reports of violence emerged from multiple locations, prompting an investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) following a directive from the Calcutta High Court.
Opposition leader in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, asserts that the decision to declare the holiday follows his criticism of the Chief Minister for neglecting to do so in the past.
Amit Malviya, the BJP's IT cell chief and the party's central observer for West Bengal, interprets this move as an attempt by Chief Minister Banerjee to rectify her perceived anti-Hindu image. However, he insists that ensuring the safety of Ram Navami processions remains paramount, urging against any incidents of stone-pelting during the celebrations.
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