Dozens of people from the Muslim community staged protests in Kolkata after the newly formed BJP government in West Bengal announced restrictions on roadside namaz and public prayer gatherings. Police intervened after tensions rose during Friday prayers in the Rajabazar area.
According to reports, the protest began peacefully with demonstrators marching through the streets after Friday prayers. However, the situation became tense when some protesters attempted to offer namaz on public roads despite the new restrictions imposed by the state government.
Viral videos circulating on social media showed police personnel trying to stop the roadside prayer gathering, leading to heated arguments and brief scuffles between protesters and police officers. Authorities later deployed additional police forces in the area to prevent further unrest.
Background of the Controversy
The protests come days after the newly sworn-in BJP-led West Bengal government under Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that namaz would no longer be permitted on public roads and streets.
BJP leaders said religious prayers should be conducted inside mosques and not on public roads, claiming the move was based on court directions and public order concerns.
The government also reportedly introduced stricter rules regarding loudspeaker volumes and public religious gatherings.
Political Reactions
The issue has triggered sharp political debate across West Bengal.
Opposition parties and several Muslim organizations criticized the restrictions, calling them discriminatory and politically motivated. Meanwhile, BJP leaders defended the decision, saying roads are public spaces and should remain free from disruptions.
The controversy has further intensified political tensions in West Bengal shortly after the BJP formed government in the state.
