Kolkata:
A two-day celebration to mark 75 years of the West Bengal Assembly started on Monday, with former speakers including ex-Lok Sabha speaker Somnath Chatterjee being felicitated on the occasion.
Governor MK Narayanan said the assembly has passed 2,232 legislations till now some of which are the "most progressive items of legislation in the world".
"Democracy is a process and not an event. This day is an important day for us and this assembly has been witness to many a great political shift. Legislations passed from here have been always aimed at providing social justice and public welfare," said Narayanan.
Describing the assembly of having an illustrious past, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged the members to work for the people without any prejudice.
"It is a big day today and we are all here to commemorate the completion of 75 years of the state assembly. I am proud to be part of this house which has been witness to an illustrious past with many incidents and people making their mark. I express my respects to the highest seat of democracy and urge all to work for the welfare of the public without any prejudice," said Banerjee.
Speaking on the occasion, state Parliamentary Affairs Minister Partha Chatterjee urged the members to work together without any difference.
"We want to show the world we are all together. The House has a legacy and heritage and we must always respect that. Using the House to malign others is disrespect and all must refrain from it," said Chatterjee.
Former speaker HA Halim and eight members who have served eight terms or more were felicitated on the occasion.