Keep Durga Pujas out of politics, says Samik

A file photograph of the College Square puja pandal Kolkata: BJP state president Samik Bhattacharya on Thursday urged party legislators to keep Durga Puja outside the ambit of politics, asking them not to use their political influence to take control of community pujas beyond their own constituencies.Speaking at the Khuti Puja of the College Square Sarbojanin Durga Puja on Thursday, Bhattacharya also declined the organisers’ proposal to make him the committee’s chairperson, saying he preferred to remain associated with the puja without holding any official position.Addressing the gathering, he said political change in the state has also affected community pujas. Referring to the previous Trinamool govt, he said several ministers had supported and nurtured local pujas but lost interest in remaining associated with their committees after the change in govt.“I have given a specific message on behalf of our party. MLAs are free to participate in Pujas in their own constituencies and could accept positions in committees if invited voluntarily and transparently and without any political pressure by the committees,” said Bhattacharya.He, however, cautioned against using political influence to assume control of puja committees. “Don’t try to take over a Puja in an area where you don’t live, have no connection, or that does not fall within your constituency. Just because you are in office does not mean you can forcefully take control of a puja. That is not acceptable. We have to change this culture and keep Durga Puja outside the ambit of politics,” he said.Bhattacharya said the popularity of a puja should not depend on the presence of political leaders. While acknowledging that inaugurations by the CM or other elected representatives attract public attention, he said the faith and devotion should remain the defining feature of the festival. Bhattacharya said, “Many started referring to Puja as utsab. But it is puja. If you remove the Durga idol and do utsab for five days nobody will enter the pandal.”Explaining why he declined the committee post, he said, “Do not give me any position here. If you do that I will not be able to say the things I am saying now.”You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Kolkata | Silver Rate in Kolkata | Bank Holidays in Kolkata | Public Holidays in Kolkata | Kolkata AQI | Weather in Kolkata | Petrol Price in Kolkata | Diesel Price in Kolkata | CNG Price in Kolkata | LPG Price in KolkataStay updated with the latest Kolkata news. Download the TOI App.