St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata observed 14 August 2026 as a Day of Remembrance of the Partition of Bengal and its Consequences through a series of academic programmes focusing on the historical, social, cultural and economic impact of Partition, as well as the courage and resilience of those affected.

As part of the observance, the Xavier’s Students’ Board organised an Inter-Departmental Modified Oxford Style Debate on 14 August 2026 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Amphitheatre 223. Students representing the Faculty of Arts and Social Studies, the Faculty of Commerce and Management, Xavier Business School, Xavier Law School and the Faculty of Science participated in the debate on the motion, “This House believes that the Partition of Bengal was necessary at the time of Independence.” The debate encouraged students to critically examine the historical circumstances and wider social, political and economic consequences of Partition.

A Panel Discussion was also organised at Father Albert Huart Hall from 4:00 PM onwards, featuring Dr. Susmita Haldar, Dr. Shuvendu Chakraborty, Dr. Ranjeeta Mukherjee and Dr. Afkar Ahmad, and moderated by Dr. Sitangshu Khatua. The discussion explored the experiences of displacement, loss, and suffering, along with the social, cultural, and economic consequences of Partition, and the resilience of affected communities. The programme concluded with reflections from the panellists.

The observance provided both students and faculty with an opportunity to engage meaningfully with the history and enduring legacy of the Partition of Bengal. Through thoughtful debate and interdisciplinary dialogue, SXUK sought to foster historical consciousness, empathy, critical inquiry, and a deeper sense of responsible citizenship, while honouring the experiences, resilience, and profound human consequences associated with Partition. The programmes were duly documented and video-recorded for institutional records and future reference.

As part of the University's broader commemorative activities, the 80th Independence Day of India will be celebrated on the University campus on August 15, in the presence of the Jesuit Fathers, Sisters, faculty members, officers, support staff, and students, from 9.30 AM onwards. On this occasion, Hon’ble Father Vice-Chancellor, Rev. Dr. John Felix Raj will deliver the Independence Day Address and share his message with the University community, reflecting on the significance of the occasion and the values of freedom, unity, responsibility and nation-building.

Dr. Sovik Mukherjee

Deputy Chairperson, Students' Board

St. Xavier's University 

Kolkata.

Youtube link:  https://youtu.be/X5PntMxHpxM