Kolkata: Ahead of the Assembly election next year, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday announced grant of Rs. 1lakh 10 thousand to approximately 40000 Durga Puja committees in the state.
Addressing the Durga Puja committees, Mamata said that this decision has been taken to help the Durga Puja committees who organize the biggest festival of the state.
“We want the committees to manage expenses without stress. We are for the people and moreover Durga Puja is not just a religious celebration, it is a cultural festival that unites everyone. This year no fees will be charged by civic bodies, fire brigade or state-run service providers. CESC will provide power at 80 per cent concession. Last year this was 75 per cent. I have already spoken with them,” said Mamata.
Notably, in 2018 she gave a grant of Rs. 10000 which rose to Rs. 25000 in 2019. During Covid 19 pandemic the grant became Rs. 50000. In 2024 she gave Rs. 85000 to the Durga Puja committees.
Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari slammed Mamata’s increase in the grant.
“Since there is no dearth of funds then she should clear DA of the government employees and also increase the salary of every government employee. She should make it clear that there should be no condition that the CM’s photographs have to be displayed at the puja pandals. People are aware and despite her increase in grants people will not vote for them,” added Adhikari.
The protesting government employees also mentioned that the announcement of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made them understand that she is not beside the employees.
