Has the Calcutta HC Allowed Suvendu Adhikari's 'Sanatani' Rally in Contai Tomorrow?
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Synopsis
In a significant ruling, the Calcutta High Court has allowed Suvendu Adhikari to hold a rally for Sanatani Hindus. Coinciding with the inauguration of the Lord Jagannath Temple, this event raises crucial questions about security and political dynamics. Will this rally impact the ongoing political climate in West Bengal?
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta High Court permits rally for 'Sanatani' Hindus.
- Event coincides with Lord Jagannath Temple inauguration.
- Attendance capped at 3,000 participants.
- Political tensions highlighted in West Bengal.
- Adhikari questions temple naming conventions.
Kolkata, April 29 (NationPress) The Calcutta High Court granted permission on Tuesday for the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, to conduct a rally of 'Sanatani' Hindus in East Midnapore district in celebration of Akshaya Tritiya.
Notably, this event coincides with the inauguration of the Lord Jagannath Temple in Digha, also located in the same district, which will be attended by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Adhikari initially faced a denial from the East Midnapore district police regarding the rally and subsequently sought redress from the single-judge bench of Justice Tirthankar Ghosh on April 21.
After extended discussions over the past few days, Justice Ghosh’s bench allowed Adhikari to take part in the rally, stipulating that attendance be capped at 3,000 individuals.
While Adhikari is not the main organizer of the event in Contai, he will serve as the keynote speaker.
The state government and district police opposed the rally, arguing that it would conflict with a significant gathering for the temple's inauguration, which is designed after the renowned Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha.
The police expressed concerns over their capability to maintain security for both events simultaneously.
Conversely, Adhikari's legal team contended that the distance between Contai and Digha would mitigate any potential issues.
A controversy previously erupted when Adhikari challenged the Chief Minister's assertion that the Lord Jagannath Temple in Digha mirrors the iconic Puri Temple.
Adhikari urged the Chief Minister to clarify why the proposed temple is referred to as the Jagannath Dham Cultural Centre rather than the Shree Jagannath Temple.
"The Chief Minister should take immediate action to change the name from 'Jagannath Dham Cultural Centre' to 'Shree Jagannath Temple' in all pertinent state government documentation, including tenders and documents from WBHIDCO, which is managing the construction funded by the state treasury," the Leader of the Opposition asserted.
Point of View
The recent ruling by the Calcutta High Court to permit Suvendu Adhikari’s rally reflects ongoing tensions in West Bengal’s political arena. The decision underscores the intricate balance between religious observance and political activity, emphasizing the need for authorities to ensure security while respecting democratic rights.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the rally?
The rally serves to celebrate Akshaya Tritiya among 'Sanatani' Hindus and highlights political dynamics in West Bengal.
Who is Suvendu Adhikari?
Suvendu Adhikari is the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly.
Why was the rally initially denied?
The East Midnapore district police denied permission, citing concerns over overlapping events and security.
What is the limit on rally attendees?
The High Court has limited the rally attendance to 3,000 participants.
What is the controversy surrounding the temple's name?
Adhikari challenged the Chief Minister’s claims about the temple’s design and its naming, advocating for a change to 'Shree Jagannath Temple'.
