Kolkata: The Mamata Banerjee Government today decided not to challenge in the Supreme Court the interim verdict of Calcutta High Court on Durga immersion controversy and instead held a high level meeting to ensure a peaceful celebration of Durga puja and observance of Muharram. The chief minister presided over a meeting of top civil and police officials at the state secretariat 'Nabanna'. She discussed maintenance of law and order during the festivals, including immersion of Durga idols, with a note that every community puja committee should seek the local police station's permission about timing and routes of immersion.
The Yesterday Calcutta High Court, in an order, directed the DGP, police commissioners and all police stations to specify separate routes for immersion of Durga idols and taking out Taziyas and ensure they do not overlap. The court directive followed an earlier state government order restricting immersion on September 30 till 6 pm and a complete ban on October 1 on account of Muharram. The court ordered that immersion be allowed till 12 midnight on all days beginning September 30, that is Dashami.
Today's meeting reviewed all aspects of the law and order. The chief minister directed top police officials to ensure that the puja committee in each area seek prior permission from the local police station about immersion and the routes to be taken. The government also sought the assistance of the local representatives to cooperate with the administration and the police to maintain peace and harmony among the different faiths and communities. (UNI)