Tension escalated at one of Kolkata’s most high-profile Durga pujas, Santosh Mitra Square, after organisers accused police of trying to obstruct their light-and-sound show themed on Operation Sindoor, India’s counter-strike against terror camps in Pakistan.
A day after the allegation was made public, senior officers including DC Central Indira Mukherjee inspected the pandal on Sunday and held discussions with organisers, according to a report by PTI. The focus, police said, was on managing the massive turnout and ensuring smooth dispersal of crowds.
Organisers threaten closure
The row began when BJP leader and Santosh Mitra Square puja secretary Sajal Ghosh alleged that police were exerting 'pressure tactics' and hinted at prematurely immersing the idol if harassment continued.
“The police showed us a so-called complaint from locals about noise levels. But when we asked why neighbouring pujas weren’t facing similar action, they had no reply,” Ghosh told PTI. He claimed the complaint was fabricated by 'non-locals close to the ruling TMC' and vowed the show would go on.
The puja has been drawing lakhs of visitors with its large outdoor projection on Operation Sindoor, featuring scenes of the Pahalgam massacre, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address, and India’s strikes on terror bases.
Spillover to other major pujas
The controversy also resonated with organisers of the Mohammed Ali Park puja, another major crowd-puller, who briefly closed their pandal on Saturday citing 'unreasonable' police restrictions. That standoff was resolved by Sunday after fresh talks with senior officers.
“We don’t want to deprive visitors, but police should act reasonably and not harass puja organisers,” Ghosh said, expressing solidarity with other committees.
BJP vs TMC: the political flashpoint
The issue quickly turned political. BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya accused the Mamata Banerjee administration of “obstructing” Durga puja celebrations, especially at Santosh Mitra Square, which was inaugurated this year by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Malviya, in a post on X, alleged that the state was “making every possible effort to stop” the puja, calling it “utterly shameful.” He claimed barricades and restrictions were aimed at depriving Hindus of their right to worship.
The Trinamool Congress dismissed the charge. Party spokesperson Debangshu Bhattacharya countered that the administration works round the clock to ensure safe celebrations across thousands of pujas in Kolkata and Bengal.
“Malviya should stop politicising Durga puja for narrow interests,” Bhattacharya said.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
