BJP objects to West Bengal government’s monetary grant for Durga Puja, flags model code violation

Noting that the MCC came into effect since the announcement of assembly by-polls to three constituencies including Bhabanipur from where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is contesting, the BJP alleged that the new order would influence the elections.

Kolkata: Hours after the West Bengal government announced cash grants for Durga Puja committees for organising the upcoming festival, the state BJP wrote a letter to the Election Commission complaining that the move would be in violation of the model code of conduct (MCC). Noting that the MCC came into effect since the announcement of assembly by-polls to three constituencies including Bhabanipur from where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is contesting, the BJP alleged that the new order would influence the elections. Earlier today, the Bengal government said it would provide Rs 50,000 grant to each Durga Puja committee for sponsorship, extra expenditure due to COVID-19 pandemic.