Suvendu Adhikari Mandates Sanatan Dharma Followers for Durga Idol Immersion in Kolkata
Kolkata's Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari emphasizes that only Sanatan Dharma followers will handle Durga idols during the immersion process, ensuring religious adherence.
Only Sanatan Dharma followers permitted to touch Durga idols during immersion.
Enhanced security measures and arrangements are in place for the immersion festivities.
NDRF and local authorities are involved to ensure safety following previous incidents.
In a significant announcement, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated that only followers of 'Sanatan Dharma' would be allowed to touch Durga idols during the immersion ceremony in Kolkata. This declaration was made during a review of the immersion preparations at Babughat, where he was accompanied by city police commissioner Ajay Kumar Nand and municipal commissioner Smita Pandey. Adhikari clarified that this decision is rooted in religious practice rather than communal issues.
The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining the sanctity of the immersion rituals, which have been observed for thousands of years. He stated, "To maintain the purity of the immersion, we have to follow the traditions, the scriptures, and the rules that have been followed for several thousand years. This is a festival, but primarily it is a religious programme." He also noted that arrangements have been improved this year to address security concerns and enhance the overall experience for participants.
In response to complaints regarding previous arrangements, Adhikari announced that trolleys would replace cranes for transporting the idols. Additionally, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been enlisted to help prevent any incidents during the immersion process. The police, disaster management authorities, and the municipal corporation are prepared to collaborate with other agencies, including the Port Trust, if necessary.
The Chief Minister also expressed concerns about the safety of individuals traveling in country boats to witness the idol immersion in the Ichamati river at Taki, located in North 24 Parganas district. He noted that approximately 200 boats were expected to carry spectators, and while the administration had attempted to discourage this practice, local sentiments had to be respected. To enhance safety, life jackets and weight-balancing measures have been implemented, although concerns remain due to the nature of the boats used.
As part of the safety measures, the Border Security Force (BSF) has been called in to assist with the arrangements at Taki. A cabinet minister has been dispatched to the area, and the deputy inspector general of police for the Barasat range has been assigned to oversee operations. Following a tragic stampede during the Durga Puja festivities that resulted in 19 fatalities, security has been intensified across Kolkata and neighboring police commissionerates, with 18 IPS officers designated to supervise the idol immersions until October 24.
