The Digha Jagannath Temple, inaugurated by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on April 30, 2025, has become a symbol of the complex interplay between religion and politics in India. Built at a cost of ₹250 crore, the temple is designed to resemble the Puri Jagannath Temple and aims to serve as a center for religious tourism.
The project has drawn criticism from opposition parties, particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of using public funds for religious purposes. Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, questioned the legality of the project, arguing that the Constitution prohibits the use of taxpayer money for constructing religious institutions.
In contrast, Mamata Banerjee has defended the project, emphasizing its potential to promote tourism and create employment opportunities. She also highlighted the inclusion of ISKCON Kolkata Vice President Radharamn Das in the temple’s board of trustees, suggesting that the project was a collaborative effort aimed at fostering religious harmony.
The controversy surrounding the Digha Jagannath Temple raises important questions about the role of religion in politics and governance. While some view the project as an attempt to consolidate the Hindu vote ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, others believe it is a genuine effort to promote cultural tourism. As the debate continues, the temple stands as a testament to the challenges of balancing religious sentiments with secular governance in contemporary India.
Journalist Details
