Newtown, September 12, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Saturday defended BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari’s participation in the traditional bhog at Kolkata’s Kalighat Temple, saying people follow different methods of worship and personal religious practices should not become a subject of controversy.
Adhikari had visited the temple on the occasion of Kaushiki Amavasya and partaken of the traditional bhog, which included sweets, basanti pulao and fish.
“In many places, fish is offered as prasad in temples. There are different methods of worship, ways of life and personal preferences. So, this should not be a subject of discussion. Everyone should make their own decisions and be left to decide for themselves,” Ghosh told reporters.
His comments came days after Dhirendra Krishna Garg, popularly known as Bageshwar Baba and chief priest of Bageshwar Dham, visited West Bengal for a three-day Hanumant Katha programme in Liluah, Howrah. Adhikari hosted the religious leader for dinner on Saturday.
Addressing devotees in Liluah, Bageshwar Baba had criticised the consumption of non-vegetarian food near Durga Puja and Navratri pandals, urging Hindus to oppose those involved.
West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya subsequently rejected the remarks as the religious leader’s personal opinion and questioned how Bengalis could be expected to stop eating fish and meat.
Ghosh also commented on the ongoing dispute over the Trinamool Congress’ party name and election symbol. He said discussions would continue until the Election Commission of India takes a decision.
The ECI has called representatives of the rival factions for separate meetings in New Delhi over competing claims concerning the party’s organisational control, name, assets, funds and election symbol. Representatives of the Mamata Banerjee camp and the faction led by MLA Ritabrata Banerjee are expected to present their respective claims.
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