In just two days, the festival of Rama Navami will be celebrated across the nation, including Bengal. While the BJP is gearing up for grand celebrations, this has ignited a political storm. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has questioned BJP's plans, accusing them of conspiring to incite riots.
The political tug-of-war over Rama Navami has been fueled by Mamata's remarks. Her sharp critique questions whether the BJP intends to incite chaos.
The BJP has launched protest marches in response. Sukanta Majumdar, the BJP's state president of West Bengal, led a demonstration outside Bengal Bhawan against attacks on temples and the lack of festival approval. Dozens of BJP protesters demanded Mamata Banerjee's resignation, accusing her of endorsing oppression against Hindus and forcing legal permissions for festival celebrations.
BJP's Bold Assertion
As Rama Navami politics heats up, BJP leader Dilip Ghosh expressed concerns, 'The police have reasons to worry as they lack skills in managing large events like Rama Navami. If the police try to stop us by tearing posters, we'll see them as antagonistic. TMC members are also preparing protests on the 5th and 6th; but why? Eid is over, let's enjoy the after-celebration sweets. I urge everyone to embrace peace by joining us and seeking Lord Rama's blessings. However, if they resist, millions of Hindus will rally through them.'
Adding to the tension, prominent BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has challenged Mamata to halt the Rama Navami processions. The BJP aims for a monumental gathering of one crore participants in the festivities.
Demand at Jadavpur University
In a notable development, students at Kolkata's Jadavpur University have declared their intent to celebrate Rama Navami on campus. The Hindu Student Union and campus enthusiasts expressed their intent, but the university denied campus celebrations.
Earlier on Wednesday, organizers affirmed their stance, questioning recent permission for an Iftar party while denying their tradition. Somesurya Banerjee, a key student organizer, stated, 'We are determined to celebrate Rama Navami on campus this year, just as others gathered for Iftar. We'll pursue legal action against obstruction.'
In contrast, an SFI member told Aaj Tak, 'The ABVP is pushing this event, but we will not allow Rama Navami celebrations on campus.'
Read More: Clashes Erupt at Medinipur College Over Jadavpur University Issue, Police Take Action
Court Intervention
Legal proceedings have been initiated regarding the Rama Navami procession's route in Howrah. The request, made by the Hindu faction, was denied by police, even on court-sanctioned paths, citing prior instances where initial permission for 200 people resulted in thousands gathering.
Alert Police Patrolling
In Howrah, active police surveillance indicates heightened alertness for potential conflicts as BJP envisions a massive gathering. With one crore participants expected, police are prepared to mitigate any confrontation.
