Lepchas from Darjeeling perform in I-day celebrations

With the GJM agitating for a separate Gorkhaland state in Darjeeling, members of the Lepcha community of the hills participated in the Independence day celebrations here today.
A Lepcha troupe performed a traditional dance on the Red Road during the Independence day parade here.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was the chief guest at the program.
Tribals performance received loud applause from the spectators.
The Chief Minister unfurled the tricolour and received a guard of honour from the Kolkata police during a march past at Red Road.
School children and artistes, showcasing the country's heritage, participated in the programme.

Tableaux showcasing the industrial and small-scale industries of the state as well as 100 years of Indian cinema also rolled past.
In the districts political parties hoisted flags at party offices and organised cultural programmes, some of which began since last night.
Security was tight across the metropolis and bordering districts of West Bengal.