BJP Criticizes Mamata Banerjee's Religious Politics Over Durga Puja Grant

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lashed out at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, alleging that her announcement of a Rs 1.1 lakh government grant for community Durga Pujas is motivated by religious politics. The party claims Banerjee's focus on religious activities detracts from crucial development priorities.

Agnimitra Paul, BJP's state general secretary and MLA for Asansol South, criticized the move, arguing that the government's role should be to promote infrastructure and job creation rather than religious festivities. 'Building temples and funding pujas can't be a government's primary focus,' she said.

Paul further contended that the government's actions could lead to demands from other communities for similar allocations, questioning the administration's priorities. The BJP, she asserted, is committed to advancing education and economic opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their religion.

(With inputs from agencies.)