Kolkata, June 28: The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) has approached the Kolkata Police seeking permission to hold its annual'Shahid Divas'programme on July 21 in front of Victoria House at Esplanade. The party has also requested approval for logistical and preparatory arrangements from July 19 to July 21.

In its letter to the Commissioner of Police, Kolkata, the AITC said the event has been organised at the same venue under the leadership of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for several years and that it intends to continue the longstanding tradition in 2026.

"Keeping the spirit of this longstanding socio-political tradition of West Bengal's democracy uninterrupted this year (2026), the All India Trinamool Congress shall organise the 'July 21 Shahid Divas' and accordingly, we pray for necessary permissions from your end for three days, that is July 19-21, 2026," the letter stated.

The party informed the police that the main programme would conclude by 4 p.m. on July 21, while noting that additional time may be required for the orderly dispersal of attendees.

Referring to previous editions of the event, the AITC said the expected turnout would be comparable to that of recent years. "For record and reference, it is stated that the gathering of people shall be similar, if not identical, as has been for past several years, the records of which are well kept with your office," the letter said. The party also requested the police to consider its application and respond preferably within a week.

Observed every year on July 21, 'Shahid Divas' commemorates the 13 Youth Congress workers who were killed in police firing during a protest in Kolkata in 1993, when the Left Front was in power. Mamata Banerjee, then a prominent Youth Congress leader, was leading the demonstration during which the firing allegedly took place.