Political Controversy Erupts Over Digha Jagannath Temple Inauguration

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 13, 2024, Kolkata : A political storm broke out following Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's visit to the soon-to-be-completed Jagannath Temple in Digha on Wednesday. During her visit, Banerjee announced that the temple would be inaugurated on Akshaya Tritiya, a statement that immediately sparked controversy.

Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari quickly dismissed the announcement, accusing the Chief Minister of spreading falsehoods. Adhikari, speaking outside the assembly, claimed there was no official mention of the temple in state documents and argued that it was unconstitutional for the government to fund the construction of a religious institution. He further asserted that Puri Dham, not Digha, should remain the exclusive site for worship of Lord Jagannath, dismissing the Digha temple as a "fake" imitation.

Adhikari also presented documents from the state government's agreement with HIDCO, which indicated that a Jagannath Cultural Center, not a full temple, was being built in Digha. His remarks prompted a sharp rebuttal from Trinamool Congress leader Kunal Ghosh, who responded on Thursday. Ghosh accused Adhikari of jealousy, asserting that the temple's construction was nearing completion and that the Chief Minister’s initiative would further enhance Bengal's reputation on the world stage.

He emphasized that Mamata Banerjee had made arrangements for religious worship across various faiths, underscoring the inclusive nature of her administration. Ghosh also mocked the opposition's criticisms, suggesting that they were motivated by political rivalry. The public in Bengal has been following this heated exchange between the two political leaders with growing interest.