Durga Puja 2024: RG Kar Rape Case Casts a Shadow

Durga Puja 2024: Will Bengal Celebrate Amid RG Kar Rape and Murder Case?

Durga Puja is more than just a festival for Bengalis; it’s an emotion. However, this year, the joy surrounding the festival has been dampened by the heinous rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College. The crime has cast a shadow over the celebrations, with many Durga Puja committees across the state opting to return government grants in protest, raising questions about whether the community will celebrate as usual.

The Crime:

On August 9, 2024, the body of a second-year trainee doctor was found in the seminar hall of RG Kar Medical College. The forensic report confirmed rape and murder, sparking protests throughout the city.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called for the city to return to festivities, but many citizens remain adamant that celebrations will only resume once justice has been served.

A Different Durga Puja This Year:

Actress Swastika Mukherjee, in an interview with India Today, explained the difference between “puja” (personal devotion) and “utsob” (community celebration). “Given the current situation, people are reluctant to celebrate in the usual way,” she said.

Several Durga Puja committees, including Shakti Sangh and Apanader Durga Puja in North Kolkata, have refused to accept the state government’s grant of ₹85,000, choosing to hold subdued, simple celebrations this year.

Economic Impact:

According to a 2019 report, West Bengal’s Durga Puja contributes ₹32,377 crore to the state’s economy. Thousands of artisans, drummers, lightmen, and pandal makers rely on the festival for their livelihoods.

A Personal Decision:

Kolkata-based content creator Priyam Ghose pointed out, “Durga Puja is not just about dancing and music. It is a vital source of income for thousands of people. Canceling the festival could have a devastating impact on them.”

The Triumph of Good Over Evil:

Despite the somber atmosphere, Swastika Mukherjee reminded people that Durga Puja is about the triumph of good over evil. “We celebrate Durga because she symbolizes female empowerment and the victory of good over evil,” she said.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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