Independence Day celebrated in West Bengal

Kolkata, Aug 15: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee unfurled the Tricolour as the state celebrated the 70th Independence Day today. Banerjee unfurled the tricolour on Red Road here and received a guard of honour from the Kolkata Police and other security personnel.

On this occasion, Chief Minister's police medal for Outstanding Service was given to Sanjay Mukherjee, DG (fire service), Ajay Mukunde Ranade, IGP (South Bengal), and Vishal Garg, Joint commissioner (STF).

Chief Minister's police medal for Commendable Service was given to Subrata Mitra, DIG (Presidency Range), Amit P Javalgi, SP (Darjeeling), Mukesh, SP (Murshidabad), Shankar Shubra Chakraborty, IPS, (OSD to CMO), and Dip Narayan Goswami, DC (Special Branch).

Cultural programmes were held by school children and various artistes at the Red Road venue showcasing the cultural heritage of the country. As the colourful tableaus and and marching contingents went past, a helicopter showered flower petals on people gathered to witness the celebrations.

After Banerjee became Chief Minister in 2011, she started the Independence Day event at the Red Road with parades and colourful programmes.

People across West Bengal today celebrated the 68th Independence Day taking out processions, organising parades and cultural programmes.

The Day was also celebrated in schools and colleges, hospitals and other government and non-government institutions across the state.

The Border Security Force observed the day at the Petrapole International checkpoint which was witnessed by large number of people from both sides of International Boundary. School children and teachers also participated in this function. As per practice on this occasion, BSF handed over fruits and sweets to Border Guard Bangladesh.

PTI