Bengal Tightens Security as Durga Temple Reopens After 15 Years

The Durga Temple in Asansol’s Bastin Bazar has reopened after remaining largely closed for nearly 15 years, drawing large crowds of devotees and prompting heightened security arrangements across the area. The reopening comes amid ongoing post-poll tensions in West Bengal following the recent Assembly election results.

The temple had been closed for regular worship for over a decade and was opened only during major festivals such as Durga Puja, Kali Puja, and Lakshmi Puja. BJP leader Krishnendu Mukherjee had promised during his election campaign that the temple would remain open throughout the year if he won.

After his victory, Mukherjee visited the temple and formally reopened it for devotees. Since then, large crowds have gathered to offer prayers, prompting authorities to step up security measures in and around the temple premises.

Central forces and additional police personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents. Officials said the arrangements are precautionary, aimed at ensuring peaceful religious activities and maintaining communal harmony in the sensitive region.

The reopening has also attracted political attention, with many viewing it as a symbolic development following the BJP’s strong electoral performance in the state. Authorities continue to closely monitor the situation amid ongoing post-election tensions.