Is the Calcutta HC Challenging the Bengal Government's Decision to Increase Durga Puja Dole?
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Synopsis
A recent petition in the Calcutta High Court questions the West Bengal government's decision to raise the Durga Puja financial assistance for community committees. This significant increase has sparked controversy, with critics voicing concerns over state spending amid rising unemployment. The upcoming court proceedings could have major implications for community celebrations this year.
Key Takeaways
- The financial assistance for Durga Puja committees has increased significantly this year.
- This decision has sparked public criticism and legal challenges.
- Economic implications for the state treasury are considerable.
- Political leaders are taking strong stances on the issue.
- The situation reflects broader economic concerns in West Bengal.
Kolkata, Aug 4 (NationPress) A petition has been lodged in the Calcutta High Court on Monday contesting the West Bengal government's decision to raise the annual financial assistance for various community Durga Puja committees to Rs 1,10,000 this year, a significant increase from last year's Rs 85,000, as declared by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee last week.
Saurav Dutta, a local resident from Durgapur in East Burdwan district, sought the approval of Calcutta High Court Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam to submit a petition regarding this issue.
The bench granted permission for the petition to be filed. However, the timeline for the hearing and the specific bench assigned to the case remains uncertain.
Dutta had previously approached the high court with a similar petition last year, but the court chose not to intervene in the state government's decision at that time.
The state government and the Chief Minister are currently facing severe backlash regarding the decision to increase the annual financial aid to the community Puja Committees to Rs 1,10,000.
Preliminary estimates indicate that the increased Puja financial assistance this year could cost the state treasury between Rs 473 crore and Rs 495 crore, depending on the actual number of eligible community Durga Puja committees, which is significantly higher than last year's figure of Rs 365.5 crore.
While these figures represent only the direct payments from the state treasury, the actual financial burden will be much greater, considering the substantial 80 percent electricity concessions provided to beneficiary Puja committees in addition to the annual financial assistance.
The Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, has urged community Durga Puja committees to reject the annual financial assistance in honor of a junior woman doctor from R.G. Kar Medical College & Hospital in Kolkata, who tragically became a victim of a horrific crime within the hospital premises in August of last year. He also emphasized solidarity with the thousands of unemployed youths in the state whose aspirations for a better livelihood have been hindered by the state government's ineffective policies.
Additionally, he pledged full support to those community Durga Puja committees that choose to decline the state government's financial aid this year.
Point of View
The ongoing situation in West Bengal underscores the delicate balance between cultural traditions and fiscal responsibility. While celebrating Durga Puja is vital for community cohesion, the implications of increased state funding amidst rising unemployment raise critical questions about governance and resource allocation. It is essential to navigate these challenges with both respect for cultural practices and a commitment to addressing the economic realities of the citizens.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new amount for the Durga Puja financial assistance?
The annual financial assistance for community Durga Puja committees has been raised to Rs 1,10,000 this year.
Who filed the petition against the Bengal government's decision?
The petition was filed by Saurav Dutta, a resident of Durgapur in East Burdwan district.
What is the expected cost of the enhanced financial assistance?
The enhanced financial assistance is estimated to cost the state exchequer between Rs 473 crore and Rs 495 crore.
What stance has the Leader of the Opposition taken?
Suvendu Adhikari has urged community Durga Puja committees to reject the financial assistance as a mark of respect for a victim of a tragic crime.
When will the petition be heard in court?
It is currently unclear when the petition will be heard and which bench will handle the case.
