Kolkata, 26 March (H.S.) : Tensions flared at a Ram Navami procession in New Town on Thursday after allegations surfaced that participants were carrying weapons. Police intervened to stop the rally, stating that armed gatherings could not be allowed, which briefly led to unrest.

Ram Navami processions had commenced across Kolkata and surrounding districts from early morning. At New Town’s Ram Mandir, the procession was reportedly carrying swords, prompting a joint team of New Town and Bidhannagar police to halt the rally. Authorities emphasized that gatherings with weapons would not be permitted under any circumstances.

The BJP candidate from Rajarhat-New Town Assembly constituency, Piyush Kanodia, was also present at the rally and tried to reason with the police. However, the officers remained firm in their stance, resulting in heated arguments and a tense standoff. Despite the initial chaos, the procession eventually resumed after negotiations.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh