Durga Puja celebrations in Bangladesh have encountered significant obstacles this year, with the interim government and certain Muslim groups reportedly denying permission in several regions. Organizing committees have also been asked to maintain silence during Namaaz and pay a fee of Rs.5,00,000, referred to as 'jizya', to proceed with the festivities. These developments follow a series of idol vandalism and looting incidents across the country.
In late September, multiple Durga Puja committees received threat letters demanding a payment of Rs.5,00,000 to celebrate the festival. Several Hindu temples in the Dakop area of Khulna lodged police complaints after receiving these letters.
Last month, an advisory issued by the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government requested Puja committees to turn off musical instruments and sound systems during the azaan and Namaaz. The advisory came from Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury after a law and order meeting.
The situation for minority communities in Bangladesh has worsened since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in August, with rising violence targeting these groups. The new administration insists these attacks are politically motivated. Officials have cited security concerns as a reason for restricting Durga Puja celebrations, though senior government members affirm that worshippers will still have the chance to celebrate.
"This is quite strange. There may be a small group that opposes Durga Puja, but it has been celebrated here for ages without issue. Worshippers who wish to celebrate certainly have the opportunity. There should be no doubt about this," said Bangladesh's foreign affairs advisor, Mohammed Touhid Hossain, in a recent discussion.
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