West Bengal CM defends 'godman’ who sought to avoid meat during Durga Puja
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari defended religious preacher Dhirendra Krishna Shastri after he faced backlash for suggesting that meat should not be sold near Durga Puja idols. The comments have sparked political tension and protests in the state.
Why it matters
The incident underscores the intersection of religious sentiment, dietary politics, and regional governance in India.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on September 10 (Thursday) defended the remarks made by Dhirendra Krishna Shastri alias Bageshwar Baba advocating vegetarian food during the upcoming Durga Pujas. Speaking in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, Mr. Adhikari said that the ‘saint’ had advocated his views, but did not impose it on anyone.
“A saint had come to Liluah, he spoke like a saint about nationalism, Akhand Bharat and on culture. Those who want to accept will accept, and those who do not want will not. He did not impose it on anyone. I saw a number of people burning his photographs outside Bhawanipore police station. I am directing the CP (Commissioner of Police) from here that these people need to be arrested,” the Chief Minister said.
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