Will CM Mamata's Increased Durga Puja Funding Encounter Legal Hurdles?
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Synopsis
The announcement by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to raise the Durga Puja funding to Rs 1.10 lakh has sparked legal disputes that may unfold in the Calcutta High Court. Advocates and opposition voices are challenging this decision amid rising costs and prior court directives, making this a pivotal issue in West Bengal's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Mamata Banerjee's
- Legal challenges are expected at the Calcutta High Court.
- Estimated costs of the new funding could be between Rs 473 crore and Rs 495 crore.
- The funding increase has drawn criticism from opposition parties.
- 80 percent electricity subsidies will further increase overall costs.
Kolkata, Aug 2 (NationPress) The recent declaration by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, which increases the annual state financial support for community Durga Puja committees to Rs 1.10 lakh this year from last year's Rs 85,000, is poised to encounter legal obstacles at the Calcutta High Court this week.
On Saturday, senior advocate and CPI-M Rajya Sabha member Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya announced his intention to challenge this decision in court next week.
He voiced skepticism regarding the effectiveness of his legal action, suggesting that the court might adjourn for Puja holidays before resolving the issue.
Meanwhile, the BJP has already approached the Calcutta High Court with a petition contesting the increased financial support, referencing a similar case from 2020.
The court had granted the BJP permission to proceed with that petition.
Additionally, the state government's counsel may use the enhanced Puja funding as a point of contention in a contempt-of-court case concerning the Dearness Allowance arrears owed to current and retired state employees, which the Supreme Court mandated be settled by June 30.
Preliminary estimates suggest that this year's increased Puja funding could cost the state treasury between Rs 473 crore and Rs 495 crore, contingent on the number of community Durga Puja committees eligible for the funds, significantly higher than last year's Rs 365.5 crore.
While these figures reflect only direct disbursements, the total expenditure will surpass this amount due to a substantial 80 percent electricity subsidy afforded to the beneficiary Puja committees in addition to the annual funding.
The state government has faced criticism from opposition parties regarding this increase in funding for the Puja.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize that while community celebrations like Durga Puja are vital for cultural cohesion, the financial implications of increased funding warrant scrutiny. Legal challenges reflect a broader concern about fiscal responsibility and adherence to previous court mandates. This situation illustrates the complex intersection of governance, culture, and legal accountability in West Bengal.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new funding amount for Durga Puja committees?
The funding amount has been increased to Rs 1.10 lakh this year.
Who is challenging the funding increase legally?
Senior advocate Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya is set to challenge this decision in the Calcutta High Court.
What is the cost estimate for the enhanced funding?
The estimated cost for the enhanced funding could be between Rs 473 crore and Rs 495 crore.
What was last year's funding amount?
Last year's funding amount was Rs 85,000.
How might this funding increase affect community celebrations?
The funding increase is intended to support community Durga Puja celebrations, potentially enhancing their scale and impact.
