Suvendu Adhikari calls for boycott of Durga Puja carnival amid protests

Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, has officially called for a boycott of the Durga Puja carnival this year, citing public dissatisfaction with the West Bengal government's handling of healthcare issues, particularly following the tragic death of a junior doctor from RG Kar Hospital. The doctor was the victim of violence, prompting outrage and protests within the medical community. Adhikari's comments come as junior doctors continue their hunger strike to demand justice, drawing attention to the systemic failures in the healthcare system.

In his statement, Adhikari said, “This time it was Durga Puja, not a festival. People came out, but there was no excitement.” He highlighted concerns about safety and the political climate, stating, “We can’t protect the house,” and urged the public to boycott the carnival as a way to send a strong message against the government's negligence. His remarks reflect a strategic move to galvanize public sentiment against the ruling Trinamool Congress party, tapping into the widespread anger over healthcare crises.

The hunger strike by junior doctors has entered its second week, with three doctors—Aniket Mahat, Alok Verma, and Anustup Mukherjee—hospitalized due to health complications related to their fast. Meanwhile, six other junior doctors remain on strike at the Dharna Mancha in Dharmatala. They have been vocal about their demands for better safety measures for medical professionals and justice for their deceased colleague. The situation has intensified calls for reform within the healthcare system, as doctors express fears for their safety and well-being while serving the community.

In response to Adhikari's boycott call, leaders from the Trinamool Congress have strongly criticized the move. Kunal Ghosh remarked, “What does it matter to boycott those whom people have boycotted?” He emphasized that the Durga Puja carnival is a celebration of Bengal’s rich cultural heritage and should not be used as a political pawn. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also urged citizens to focus on the significance of the festival and the unity it brings to the community, stating, “Let’s return to the festival and celebrate together.”

Additionally, as the political clash unfolds, Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee posted images on social media showcasing large crowds at Durga Puja pandals, asserting that public enthusiasm for the festival remains strong despite political tensions. The opposition's boycott call raises questions about its potential impact on public sentiment regarding the celebrations and whether it could dampen the festive spirit in Kolkata.