Kolkata, Mar 21 (PTI) Eid-ul-Fitr was celebrated with religious fervour and enthusiasm across West Bengal on Saturday, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari extending greetings to people on the occasion. Dressed in new clothes, Muslims offered prayers at mosques and other places in the morning with the largest congregation being held at Red Road in Kolkata, which was attended by Banerjee.
Prayers were offered at the Nakhoda Mosque and the Tipu Sultan Mosque, and at Park Circus Maidan in the southern part of the city, and several other places in the state.
People were seen exchanging gifts and giving alms to the needy who had gathered near mosques.
Youngsters made a beeline before popular eateries and visited parks, supermarkets and entertainment centres across the city to make the most of the day.
Imams of different mosques called for peace, harmony and brotherhood, while extending wishes and greetings to people on the occasion of Eid, marking the culmination of the fasting month of Ramzan.
Elaborate security arrangements for the smooth conduct of Eid prayers across the state were made by the administration.
The CM, in a post on X, said: “Eid Mubarak to all! On this auspicious occasion… I pray that peace, compassion, and harmony prevail in every home. Today, I also visited Collin Lane, Ripon Street, and Beck Bagan, where I interacted with residents and was deeply touched by their warmth, affection, and blessings.
“I remain deeply concerned about the ongoing challenges faced by many citizens regarding their rightful place in the electoral rolls. I have approached the appropriate legal forums, including the Hon’ble courts, with the hope that the constitutional rights of every individual will be protected. I want to assure the people of Bengal that I stand with each one of you, across all religions, castes, and communities, as a member of your family.” Elections to the 294-member West Bengal assembly will be held in two phases on April 23 and Apri 29. Votes will be counted on May 4.
She also gave the call to be united, “at a time when divisive forces seek to fracture our social fabric…” “Bengal has always stood as a beacon of inclusiveness, where every faith is honoured and every voice matters. Let us continue to uphold the values of peace, fraternity, and dignity that define us,” Banerjee said.
BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari, also the Leader of Opposition in the assembly, said, “Hope this day brings immense joy and happiness to those who are celebrating the occasion.” Candidates of various political parties also extended greetings to members of the minority community on the occasion. PTI SUS RBT
Category: Breaking News
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