West Bengal approves 12,400 new Durga Pujas with state financial support

Chief Minister Adhikari made the announcement at a ceremonial programme inaugurating 'Debipaksha'—the fortnight dedicated to the goddess—at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. He emphasized that the new permissions represent a departure from previous administrative procedures, asserting that his government has streamlined the approval process for puja committees.

Addressing concerns about the bureaucratic hurdles faced by organizers under the previous administration, Adhikari stated that no puja committees have required high court intervention to secure necessary permissions this year. "Earlier, one had to approach the Calcutta High Court to get requisite permission," he noted, characterizing the previous process as problematic.

The state government has determined that Durga Pujas will commence during Debipaksha rather than Pitripakkha—the fortnight dedicated to ancestral remembrance—aligning celebrations with traditional Hindu astrological practices. Adhikari stated that this year's celebrations will emphasize both cultural aspects and customary rituals as prescribed by the traditional Hindu calendar.

All 12,400 newly approved puja committees will receive financial assistance from the state, with disbursement of one lakh rupees per committee expected in coming days. The expanded permissions underscore the government's commitment to supporting religious and cultural activities across West Bengal.