Why Did BJP Leader Sajal Ghosh’s Durga Puja Committee Receive Another Notice from Kolkata Police?
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Synopsis
In a contentious turn of events, the Santosh Mitra Square Durga Puja committee, led by BJP's Sajal Ghosh, faces increased scrutiny from Kolkata Police. With the fourth notice now issued, a series of restrictions on their pavilion construction raises questions about political motives and the spirit of the festivities.
Key Takeaways
- Sajal Ghosh leads the Santosh Mitra Square Durga Puja committee.
- This year’s theme is Operation Sindoor.
- The committee has received four notices from Kolkata Police.
- Restrictions include the installation of 60 CCTV cameras.
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah may inaugurate the event.
Kolkata, Sep 10 (NationPress) The Durga Puja committee at Santosh Mitra Square, headed by BJP councillor Sajal Ghosh, has been issued yet another notice from Kolkata Police—marking the fourth correspondence to date. This recent communication, dispatched on Tuesday evening by the Muchipara police station, outlines various restrictions regarding the construction and administration of this year's pavilion.
This year's theme for the Santosh Mitra Square puja committee is Operation Sindoor.
Within the notice, the police stipulated precise guidelines for the entry and exit points. Furthermore, they mandated the installation of 60 CCTV cameras, prohibited hawkers from setting up near the entrance, and required the presence of 250 experienced and trained volunteers.
Additional limitations have been placed on the light and sound displays. Moreover, no advertisements will be permitted in front of the Bank of India up to the pavilion's entrance.
Sajal Ghosh expressed his frustration upon receiving this correspondence, characterizing it as a political vendetta orchestrated by the Trinamool Congress government.
"We are working diligently on the pavilion. I assure that visitors to our mandap will not experience any inconvenience. Yet, the police are hindering the pavilion's construction. They have imposed numerous restrictions and are intentionally sending letters to harass us. This is not a new tactic; they have done this previously," Ghosh stated.
The Santosh Mitra Square puja committee was among the first to decline a grant offered by the West Bengal government.
This year, it is anticipated that Union Home Minister Amit Shah will inaugurate the Santosh Mitra Durga Puja. However, Ghosh mentioned they have not yet received confirmation from the Union Home Ministry.
Previously, they showcased the Ram Mandir as their puja theme in 2023, which was inaugurated by the Union Home Minister, who praised Ghosh's initiative to create a mandap resembling the temple in Ayodhya.
This year, the puja committee has introduced 'Operation Sindoor' as its theme. Sources indicate that Shah is likely to visit Kolkata on September 22, just after Mahalaya, which signifies the commencement of Devi Paksha—the start of the Durga Puja festivities in Bengal.
Point of View
The ongoing tension between the Santosh Mitra Square Durga Puja committee and the Kolkata Police embodies the intersection of politics and culture. While the committee seeks to uphold its traditions, the police's strict regulations raise concerns about potential overreach and the influence of political motivations. It is essential to foster a spirit of celebration that honors cultural heritage without undue interference.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the theme for this year's Santosh Mitra Square Durga Puja?
This year's theme is 'Operation Sindoor'.
How many notices has the Santosh Mitra Square Durga Puja committee received from the police?
They have received four notices so far.
Who is leading the Santosh Mitra Square Durga Puja committee?
The committee is led by BJP councillor Sajal Ghosh.
What restrictions has the Kolkata Police imposed on the Durga Puja committee?
Restrictions include installing 60 CCTV cameras, prohibiting hawkers near the entrance, and requiring 250 trained volunteers.
Who is expected to inaugurate the Durga Puja this year?
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is likely to inaugurate the Durga Puja.
