BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya on Sunday accused the West Bengal government of attempting to obstruct the Durga Puja celebrations at Santosh Mitra Square in Kolkata, terming the alleged actions “utterly shameful.” The Puja pandal was inaugurated earlier this week by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Malviya alleged that the Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led administration was making “every possible effort” to hinder the Puja. He cited attempts to disrupt the event before its commencement and opposition to the light-and-sound show Operation Sindoor. He further claimed that barricades were being set up across Kolkata to prevent devotees from reaching the venue.
“The way the West Bengal government is making every possible effort to stop the Durga Puja at Santosh Mitra Square, inaugurated this year by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, is utterly shameful,” Malviya wrote, adding that such “anti-Hindu actions” could force organisers to immerse the idol before Dashami if the restrictions continued.
He also warned that such moves amounted to depriving citizens of their “national pride,” and cautioned the Mamata Banerjee-led administration of strong public opposition.
Amit Shah’s Inauguration and Message
Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Durga Puja pandal at Santosh Mitra Square on Friday. Offering prayers to the goddess, Shah expressed hope that the 2026 Assembly elections would usher in a government capable of restoring Bengal’s lost “Sonar Bangla” glory.
“I have prayed to Maa Durga that the next government should work to build a ‘Sonar Bangla’ — a Bengal that is secure, prosperous, and abundant, fulfilling the vision of Kavi Guru Rabindranath Tagore,” Shah said. He also extended greetings for Durga Puja and Navratri, noting the festival’s global significance as a celebration of Shakti and Bengal’s cultural heritage.
Organisers and Police Trade Charges
The organisers of Operation Sindoor have indicated plans to move court against the police, alleging harassment and undue restrictions. Police sources, however, dismissed claims of any ban.
“There is no prohibition. The organisers simply have to comply with the Hon’ble High Court’s directions on permissible sound levels and ensure smooth movement of visitors to avoid a stampede-like situation,” police officials told News18. “Yesterday, people stopped for several minutes to watch a video, creating congestion. The organisers themselves should be mindful of crowd management and noise limits.”
TMC’s Response
The TMC rejected the BJP’s allegations outright. Party spokesperson Riju Dutta argued that the very fact Amit Shah inaugurated the Puja disproved the BJP’s claim of obstruction.
“If the BJP insists that the administration is trying to stop the Operation Sindoor pandal, then how did Amit Shah come here to inaugurate it?” Dutta asked. “People inside were waiting to watch a video, which led to crowding and a near-stampede. If something happens, who will take responsibility?”
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