📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Prime Minister's Office
Religion
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari says only Sanatan Dharma devotees can touch Durga idols
✍️ India.com
🗓 21 Oct 2026, 10:37 PM
👁 18
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari instructed police that only followers of Sanatan Dharma should be permitted to handle Durga idols during the festival.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari issued a directive to state police, stating that only adherents of Sanatan Dharma should be allowed to touch Durga idols during the ongoing Durga Puja celebrations. The statement was made in response to concerns raised by certain groups about the handling of the sacred images.
Police officials said they would enforce the CM's instruction and monitor the rituals at pandals across the state. They added that any violation of the order could result in legal action under existing public order laws.
The directive has sparked a debate among civil society and legal experts, who argue that the move blurs the line between state authority and religious practice. Critics warn that such a policy could set a precedent for restricting access to religious symbols based on personal belief, challenging India's secular framework.
The administration has not provided further details on how the rule will be implemented or whether exemptions will be considered for volunteers from other faiths who assist in the festivities.
As Durga Puja reaches its peak, authorities are urging devotees to cooperate with the guidelines while ensuring that the celebrations remain peaceful and inclusive.
Police officials said they would enforce the CM's instruction and monitor the rituals at pandals across the state. They added that any violation of the order could result in legal action under existing public order laws.
The directive has sparked a debate among civil society and legal experts, who argue that the move blurs the line between state authority and religious practice. Critics warn that such a policy could set a precedent for restricting access to religious symbols based on personal belief, challenging India's secular framework.
The administration has not provided further details on how the rule will be implemented or whether exemptions will be considered for volunteers from other faiths who assist in the festivities.
As Durga Puja reaches its peak, authorities are urging devotees to cooperate with the guidelines while ensuring that the celebrations remain peaceful and inclusive.