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On Friday, the Tripura State Committee of Amra Bangali observed Bhasha Shahid Diwas, also known as Language Martyrs Day, with solemnity and respect. Party leaders and members paid homage to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives on May 19, 1961, in South Assam.
Speaking to reporters, Gouranga Rudra Pal, the state secretary of Amra Bangali, explained the significance of Bhasha Shahid Diwas. He recounted the tragic incident that occurred on that day in 1961 when eleven young individuals, including one woman, lost their lives in police firing at the Silchar railway station. They were protesting against the imposition of the Assamese language on the Bengali-speaking population.
Pal highlighted that Bhasha Shahid Diwas is observed annually to remember the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for the linguistic rights of Bengalis. He emphasized that the incident serves as a reminder of the struggle faced by Bengalis in preserving their language and cultural identity.
On this occasion, Amra Bangali raised four key demands. Firstly, they called for Bengalis to be recognized as citizens and not labeled as foreigners. Secondly, they advocated for the use of the Bengali language at all levels within the state. Additionally, they demanded the establishment of Bengalistan, a region where Bengalis can live with dignity and equal rights. Lastly, the party voiced its opposition to the humiliation of the Bengali language in the education sector.
Amra Bangali’s observance of Bhasha Shahid Diwas underscores their commitment to safeguarding the language and cultural rights of Bengalis. The party’s demands reflect their dedication to ensuring equal opportunities and recognition for the Bengali-speaking population in Tripura. By raising their voice against the marginalization of the Bengali language in education, they aim to promote linguistic inclusivity and preserve the rich heritage of the Bengali community.
As Bhasha Shahid Diwas is commemorated each year, Amra Bangali remains steadfast in their pursuit of linguistic equality and the protection of Bengali language and identity.
