Kolkata, 25 March (H.S.): Nitin Naveen, national president of the Bharatiya Janata Party, on Wednesday morning offered prayers at the Dakshineswar Kali Temple and sought the blessings of Goddess Bhavatarini.

He was accompanied by state BJP president Samik Bhattacharya and senior party leader Locket Chatterjee, among other party leaders.

Speaking to reporters after the worship, Naveen said he had prayed for the prosperity and development of the state. “I have come here to seek the blessings of the Goddess. I prayed that West Bengal becomes a ‘Sonar Bangla’ and a developed state,” he said.

He also alleged that organisers of Durga Puja pandals in the state often need to approach the High Court for permissions, while permissions are granted for offering namaz. Calling the situation unfortunate, he said there should be equal treatment for all communities in the state.

Naveen added that the Bharatiya Janata Party remains committed to the overall development and a better future for West Bengal and that his visit to the temple was part of seeking divine blessings for that goal.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh