Controversial posters urge Hindu-only purchases during Bengal festival

Divisive posters have surfaced in Siliguri, West Bengal, during the state's major Durga Puja festivities, calling on consumers to buy meat and biryani only from Hindu-owned establishments. The campaign materials appeared in multiple locations across the city, including outside the residence of state minister Shankar Ghosh, according to reports.

The posters have triggered sharp criticism from political quarters. Former Siliguri Mayor Ashok Bhattacharya condemned the campaign as propaganda, directly attributing responsibility to both the state government and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Opposition voices have raised concerns about the divisive nature of the messaging during a period traditionally centered on community celebration.

The incident reflects ongoing tensions over communal politics in West Bengal, where electoral competition between regional parties and the BJP has intensified in recent years. Durga Puja, one of India's largest cultural festivals, typically emphasizes broad-based participation across religious communities, making the targeted commercial messaging particularly contentious among observers.

Authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding the posters' origin or any planned action to address the matter.