Guwahati, 17th April: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee faced backlash during her visit to Assam’s Silchar for allegedly insulting the traditional Assamese symbol, the self-respecting gamosa, amidst Rongali Bihu celebrations in the state.
Sources reported that Mamata Banerjee declined to accept a gamosa offered to her during a reception in Silchar, triggering controversy and condemnation from various quarters.
The Bihu Kristi Parishad, Assam, strongly condemned Mamata Banerjee’s actions and demanded an apology. Narhari Chutia, the vice-president of the Bihu Kristi Parishad, emphasized that the humiliation of the gamosa would not be tolerated.
Mamata Banerjee’s visit to Silchar was part of her campaign for the Lok Sabha elections. Despite being received by Assam Trinamool Congress president Ripun Bora and party leader Sushmita Dev at the Silchar airport, she reportedly refused to accept the gamosa presented to her.
The incident drew criticism, especially considering the significance of the gamosa in Assamese culture, symbolizing honor and respect.
Mamata Banerjee’s rally at Silchar Town Club ground at 1 pm further fueled the controversy surrounding the incident.
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