Post Independence

West Bengal, located in eastern India, played an instrumental role in India’s tumultuous struggle for freedom. The state that witnessed the triumphs and tribulations of ancient monarchs also has a saga of tragic suffering caused by its heart wrenching partition. Post Independence however the state has come a long way.

The post independence days in Bengal were in no way a smooth sailing affair for the state. However, the people of Bengal, known to endure struggle and having earned the much-desired freedom fought back zealously to ensure the state’s future progress.

Post Independence, the jute mills of Calcutta, a major source of revenue and employment had to bear the brunt of the partition of Bengal. The raw materials required to facilitate work in the mills were now left in the other side of the newly created boundary and thus industrial growth was severely hindered.

Another corollary of the partition was the Bangladesh’s fight for Independence in 1971 that resulted in more than 10 million refugees streaming into Bengal and seeking shelter in its hospitable premises. Kolkata, already bursting at the seams with its bustling populace sank into a quagmire of poverty and depression.

However, the City of Joy, Kolkata is invincible. The state soon rose like a phoenix from the embers and tried to restore the state’s economy and industry with grace. The charming city has warmth of its own that can be felt while strolling down the streets. Although there is still a lot left to achieve, the urban metropolis has made tremendous headway in the economic front.

West Bengal’s administration is spearheaded by the Marxist Leninist group, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) from as early as the 60’s and 70’s. The party played a pivotal role in shaping Bengal’s future with their able rule and tolerant practices.