Mamata Banerjee: Bengal Rath Yatra ‘Not Political’

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee recently affirmed that the Rath Yatra celebration in a state coastal town is purely a cultural event and unrelated to any political agenda. She emphasized that the festival has no connection to the Rath Yatra held in Puri, Odisha, implying there’s no competition between the two.

BJP Criticizes Banerjee’s Involvement

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal has expressed strong criticism of Banerjee’s participation in the Rath Yatra. The party alleges that her involvement creates a political spectacle and deviates from the traditional practices associated with the festival.

Differing Perspectives on Tradition and Politics

The differing viewpoints of Banerjee and the BJP highlight the ongoing tension between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition party in West Bengal. While Banerjee seeks to portray the event as a celebration of local culture, the BJP views it through a political lens.