Agartala: Sept 01: The Durga Puja organized by Bharat Ratna Sangha, a traditional club in Usha Bazar, has long been one of the most prominent and expensive Pujas in the state. However, this year, there is uncertainty about whether the Puja will take place at all. Recently, the club house of Bharat Ratna Sangha was demolished by the district administration, citing involvement in various illegal activities and the fact that the club house was built on government land.
In response, local residents have taken the initiative to perform Durga Puja on a smaller scale this year. They approached the administration for permission but have not received any response. On Sunday morning, locals attempted to clean the site of the demolished club house to prepare for the Puja, but they were obstructed by the administration.
The locals emphasized that the Durga Puja at Bharat Ratna Sangha Club has been a longstanding tradition, and they are determined to continue it, even on a smaller scale. They questioned why other clubs on government land have not faced similar actions. Additionally, they alleged that belongings worth 15 to 20 lakhs were stolen when the club house was demolished at 3 am.
The residents have appealed to the Chief Minister to allow them to perform the Puja, stressing that the festival has been celebrated in the area for the past 70 years. They fear that canceling the Puja this year would send a negative message to the community. Some locals have also expressed concerns that preventing the Puja could be seen as an attack on their religious practices.
The situation is currently under administrative consideration, and it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond.
