Kolkata: In a recent move, the West Bengal government led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced an increase in the monthly honorarium for Islamic clerics (Imams) and Hindu priests (purohits) by ₹500. The enhanced allowance now stands at ₹3000 for Imams (previously ₹2500) and ₹1500 for purohits (previously ₹1000). Additionally, Muslim individuals responsible for the Islamic call to prayer (Azaan), known as muezzins, will receive a monthly honorarium of ₹1500, bringing them at par with Hindu priests.
Mamata Banerjee made this announcement during an event held at the Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata. She explained, “The Wakf board used to provide the allowance for imams and muezzins. Our resources are limited. I request an increase of ₹500 in their monthly allowance. We are also raising the monthly allowance for purohits by ₹500.”
This decision has effectively doubled the allowance for Imams compared to Hindu priests. This move comes at a time when the state is facing financial constraints. A representative from the Finance Department expressed concerns about managing this additional financial burden.
It's noteworthy that the Mamata Banerjee-led government introduced the honorarium scheme for Muslim clerics and muezzins within a year of assuming power. In an official notification issued on April 19, 2012, by the Department of Minority Affairs and Madrasah Education, the government declared, "The District Magistrate will also requisition funds for a period of 2 (TWO) months, initially, on the basis of the number of imams in the District @ Rs. 2500/- per IMAM per month."
Mamata Banerjee's Effort at Balancing Eight years after implementing the honorarium scheme for Imams and Muezzins, Mamata Banerjee extended a monthly allowance to Hindu priests in September 2020. However, it's crucial to note that the number of Hindu beneficiaries was only 8000, in stark contrast to the 55,000 Imams benefitting. Moreover, the allowance for Hindu priests was set at ₹1500 per month, which is 50% less than that of Imams.
Despite these disparities, Mamata Banerjee has consistently claimed to work for the welfare of all communities. She reaffirmed her commitment during the recent announcement, stating, “As long as I am alive and my party is in power, I will be there for everyone and work for all communities. Never think that I have forgotten you.”
The issue of unequal monthly honorariums was brought up by BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in February 2021. Mamata Banerjee has faced accusations of favoring the Muslim community, notably for imposing restrictions on Durga idol immersion in 2016 and 2017 to accommodate Muharram processions.
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