‘Namaz allowed freely, pujas need court nod in Bengal’: BJP’s Nitin Nabin alleges ‘double standards’ by Mamata govt
The Statesman | 25 March 2026
BJP National President Nitin Nabin on Wednesday accused the West Bengal government of following “double standards” in granting permissions for religious activities, claiming that while namaz can be offered freely, organisers of pujas are required to seek court approval.
Speaking to reporters after offering prayers at the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Nabin termed the alleged disparity between permissions for Durga Puja and other religious activities as “unfortunate.”
The BJP leader reiterated his allegations of a dual policy, stating that citizens often have to approach the High Court for organising pujas or setting up pandals, particularly during major festivals like Durga Puja.
“I received blessings here in Maa’s darbar. I also prayed before Maa Kali because in this state, one has to seek permission from the High Court to set up puja pandal while permission is given for offering namaz. This is unfortunate. We have sought Maa’s blessings to make the state ‘Sonar Bangla’ and Viksit Bengal,” he said.
Nabin’s remarks came during his two-day organisational visit to West Bengal, which began with prayers at the historic Dakshineswar temple. The visit is part of the BJP’s intensified preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections in the state.
The visit is being seen as a crucial step in the BJP’s efforts to consolidate its position in West Bengal ahead of what is expected to be a high-stakes electoral contest.