West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has firmly refuted allegations concerning the newly inaugurated Jagannath Temple in Digha and expressed deep concern over reports of harassment faced by Bengali-speaking migrant workers in Odisha

Addressing the controversy surrounding the Digha temple, Banerjee dismissed claims that sacred neem wood from Puri's Jagannath Temple was used without authorization. She stated, "Why would we use stolen neem wood? We have our sources of neem wood. These allegations are completely baseless and unacceptable"

The Chief Minister also responded to objections raised over naming the Digha temple as "Jagannath Dham," a title traditionally associated with the 12th-century temple in Puri. She emphasized respect for both temples, saying, "We respect the temple in Puri and we also respect Jagannath Dham. Kaali Temple and Gurdwaras are everywhere across the country. Temples are there in all places... Why is there so much anger on this issue?"

In addition to addressing the temple controversy, Banerjee condemned reports of attacks on Bengali-speaking migrant workers in Odisha. She expressed grave concern over these incidents, stating, "Just like migrant workers from Odisha work peacefully in Bengal, people from Bengal also work in Odisha. I have received disturbing reports that even those merely speaking Bengali are being attacked there. This is deeply condemnable" . 

Banerjee has directed the West Bengal Director General of Police to communicate with his counterpart in Odisha to address these concerns. She emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and dignity of all workers, regardless of their linguistic or regional backgrounds.(LatestLY)

The Odisha government has acknowledged the concerns and indicated plans to send a formal communication to Banerjee, requesting a reconsideration of referring to the Digha temple as "Jagannath Dham" 

As tensions persist, both state governments are urged to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the issues amicably and uphold the principles of mutual respect and cultural harmony.