Bengal's New CM Cuts Puja Grants, Declares Dry Day on Ashtami

The West Bengal government has announced a significant shift in its approach to Durga Puja celebrations. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has decided to end the practice of providing state funds to large puja committees, a tradition maintained by the previous administration for 15 years. The decision marks a clear departure from the policies of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Addressing puja organisers, Adhikari stated that as Chief Minister, he could not justify using public money for a religious festival. He urged big-budget puja committees to operate without government aid. However, he clarified that smaller committees that genuinely require financial support will still receive assistance of Rs 1 lakh each, subject to scrutiny.

In a move that will affect many revellers, the state has declared a dry day on Ashtami, considered the most significant day of the festival. New guidelines also prohibit the blocking of national highways and the closure of 14 specific roads in Kolkata for the festivities. Furthermore, the use of DJ music has been banned during the puja and on the day of idol immersion.

While funding has been curtailed, the government has offered concessions in other areas. Puja committees will receive electricity free of charge and will be provided fire licenses at no cost.

Adhikari also outlined plans for the official state celebration, which will replace the carnival-style event of the previous regime. A four-hour programme is scheduled at Eden Gardens on Mahalaya, featuring drones and fireworks. The event is expected to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The announcement comes amid criticism from the opposition Trinamool Congress over a promotional advertisement for the event, which they claim trivialises the Goddess. Adhikari began his meeting with puja committees by apologising for the controversy.