Calcutta High Court Criticizes West Bengal Government's Durga Puja Fund Allocation

The Calcutta High Court criticized the West Bengal government for allocating only Rs 85,000 to each Durga Puja committee, suggesting Rs 10 lakh instead. The court directed state auditors to provide a detailed report on the disbursal of these funds and noted the need for accountability. Petitioner's concerns over unaccounted expenditures were also highlighted.

On Monday, the Calcutta High Court delivered a scathing remark towards the West Bengal government's fund allocation for Durga Puja celebrations, suggesting that Rs 85,000 per committee is insufficient and proposing an alternative figure of Rs 10 lakh.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee previously announced an increase in the state's allocation from Rs 75,000 last year to Rs 85,000 this year. However, the court raised questions of accountability and transparency, directing auditors to produce a detailed report on fund usage.

Concerns over misallocation were emphasized by petitioner's lawyer, Nandini Mitra, who highlighted that several Puja committees have yet to provide expenditure accounts despite ongoing financial support. The bench stressed the importance of proper lighting and infrastructure need, however highlighting that the state's funds must be utilized responsibly.

(With inputs from agencies.)