Tensions are rising in West Bengal ahead of Ram Navami celebrations, with the festival becoming a flashpoint for political friction between the BJP and the ruling Trinamool Congress. Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari has accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s government of obstructing religious freedom by preventing people from celebrating Ram Navami and pushing them to seek judicial intervention repeatedly.
Adhikari alleged that police under Mamata Banerjee’s direction are curbing the constitutional right to celebrate religious festivals. “We are forced to go to the High Court and Supreme Court over every issue. This is our constitutional right,” he stated.
Court regulates rally permissions
In response to the escalating dispute, the Calcutta High Court passed a directive concerning the Ram Navami rally in Howrah. The court allowed the rally to take place on April 6 between 3 to 5 pm, strictly mandating that no weapons be carried and prohibiting motorcycle processions. The rally must proceed peacefully under police supervision.
Three organisations—Anjani Putra Sena, Vishva Hindu Parishad, and Durga Vahini—have been granted permission to hold the rally, limited to 500 participants and confined to the GT Road route. Authorities have emphasized that any deviation from the court’s guidelines will not be tolerated.
Festive preparations amid political tensions
Despite the political turbulence, local markets in Howrah are witnessing a festive atmosphere. Shops are adorned with saffron flags and Ram Navami posters, and business activity has seen an uptick compared to previous years. One shopkeeper said, “There have been good sales, and it has increased compared to last year.”
Preparations for the religious event are in full swing, with community members expressing enthusiasm. “We have been preparing for Ram Navami for the past few days. It has been a tradition for us,” said Mukesh Prasad, a local worker.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee appealed for communal harmony and urged people not to disrupt peace during the celebrations. “Everyone will do puja. I request all communities to maintain peace and not create a riot-like situation,” she said. Banerjee emphasized following the teachings of spiritual leaders like Ramakrishna and Vivekananda rather than indulging in divisive politics.
Ram Navami, marking the birth of Lord Rama, is observed on the ninth day of Chaitra month in the Hindu calendar and will be celebrated across India on April 6.
