**BJP Criticizes Mamata Banerjee for Skipping Ram Navami Celebrations**
BJP leader and West Bengal Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for allegedly not participating in the Ram Navami celebrations, questioning her absence from the festivities. The BJP organized numerous Ram Navami events across the state, with prominent leaders spearheading marches in various locations.
While leading a Ram Navami procession in Khidderpore, a minority-dominated area of Kolkata, Adhikari claimed that Banerjee’s social media post for the occasion notably lacked an image of Lord Ram, suggesting that she does not acknowledge him. He expressed concerns about the safety of Hindus in West Bengal, citing issues he referred to as “love jihad” and “land jihad.” Adhikari stated that this year’s Ram Navami celebrations showcased Hindus “flexing their muscles.”
When questioned about the presence of weapons during the procession, Adhikari defended it as being in accordance with Hindu scripture. He expressed confidence that Hindus in the state are united and predicted that the BJP would secure victory in the upcoming 2026 West Bengal elections.
Echoing similar sentiments, BJP leader and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar criticized the heavy police presence at the Ram Navami processions, labeling the security measures as excessive. He remarked, “Hindus have become second-class citizens in West Bengal under Mamata Banerjee. With Hindus comprising 70 percent of the population, the need for such a significant security presence to celebrate Ram Navami indicates something is seriously wrong.”
In a related incident, the West Bengal BJP alleged that miscreants vandalized vehicles belonging to Ram Navami devotees in central Kolkata. The party suggested that this incident reflects Banerjee’s long-standing wishes. However, Kolkata Police responded by stating that no permission was granted for any procession in the Park Circus area, and they confirmed that a case was registered regarding the vandalism.
Trinamool Congress leader Kunal Ghosh condemned the display of aggression during the processions, questioning, “Which Ramayana contains all this?” He argued that the culture being imposed on Bengal must be resisted, emphasizing that Bengal’s worship and festivals should adhere to local traditions. Ghosh expressed his willingness to participate in Ram Navami celebrations if invited but criticized the use of the occasion for political gain.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended her greetings for Ram Navami, urging citizens to “maintain and uphold the values of peace, prosperity, and development for all” and to celebrate the occasion peacefully.
**FAQ**
**Q: Why did Suvendu Adhikari criticize Mamata Banerjee regarding Ram Navami?**
A: Adhikari criticized Banerjee for allegedly skipping the Ram Navami celebrations and for not including an image of Lord Ram in her social media post, suggesting she does not acknowledge him.
