West Bengal's Durga Puja Festivities Amid Junior Doctors' Protest

Amid protests by junior doctors demanding better safety in hospitals, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee highlighted the significance of Durga Puja in West Bengal. Many clubs have returned government financial aid in solidarity with the protests following the alleged murder of a doctor. Durga Puja celebrations begin on October 9.

In the midst of protests by junior doctors resuming a 'total cease work' ahead of Durga puja, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee emphasized the cultural significance of the festival in West Bengal. Speaking at Sreebhumi Sporting Club, Banerjee noted the importance of the annual aid provided by her government to financially strained community clubs.

Her comments come as several Durga puja committees have returned the Rs 85,000 government aid in solidarity with the protests triggered by the alleged rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar hospital in August.

Banerjee remarked, 'People of the state wait for these festivities all year long. The Durga Puja marks the start of our festive season, leading up to major celebrations like Diwali, Kali puja, and Chhath puja, culminating in Christmas.' The junior doctors intensified their protest a day after the Supreme Court urged medics to fulfill essential duties. They are calling for enhanced safety measures in hospitals.

Previously, Banerjee had requested the protesting junior doctors to resume work, stressing that the public eagerly awaits Durga puja. She highlighted that while some clubs may not need financial assistance, the Rs 85,000 grant and electricity concessions are crucial for smaller clubs.

Showing unprecedented solidarity, numerous Durga puja committees have refused the state's grant, opting for modest celebrations this year. The Durga puja celebrations are set to commence on October 9 and conclude on October 12 with Vijay Dashami.

(With inputs from agencies.)