“Ram Navami 2025: Bengal Police on High Alert as Hindu Jagran Manch Plans 5,000 Processions”
Ram Navami 2025: Bengal Police on High Alert as Hindu Jagran Manch Plans 5,000 Processions
Kolkata, April 17, 2025 – As the country prepares to celebrate Ram Navami, West Bengal braces for a wave of religious processions. The Hindu Jagran Manch (HJM) has announced plans to organize over 5,000 processions across the state. In response, the West Bengal Police has raised its security measures to prevent any disruptions and maintain law and order.
Officials expect massive public participation in these events, which commemorate the birth of Lord Ram. Given past tensions during similar occasions, the state administration has focused on ensuring a peaceful celebration while allowing religious freedom.
Hindu Jagran Manch Rallies Supporters
The Hindu Jagran Manch, affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has spent the past few weeks mobilizing its supporters. Their goal is to conduct peaceful and spiritual processions that highlight Hindu cultural heritage. According to HJM, the processions will include devotional music, cultural displays, and prayers.
HJM spokesperson Vinay Kumar explained:
“We aim to celebrate Ram Navami in a peaceful and respectful manner. We have instructed our volunteers to cooperate with law enforcement and maintain discipline.”
By choosing thousands of locations, including rural and urban areas, HJM has significantly increased the scale of this year’s celebration.
Police Boost Ground-Level Vigilance
Police officials have activated a three-tier security plan in response to the massive mobilization. They have deployed additional forces across sensitive districts, and cities like Kolkata, Howrah, Asansol, and Siliguri now operate under high alert. Police teams are conducting surveillance using CCTV cameras, drones, and real-time intelligence feeds.
“We have assigned clear roles to each unit. Officers on the ground remain ready to intervene if necessary. Our goal is to ensure a peaceful environment for everyone,” a senior officer from the state home department shared.
The administration has also increased monitoring in Murshidabad, Nadia, and North 24 Parganas, where past events triggered tension.
Political Voices Weigh In
Political leaders have responded with mixed opinions. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) urged all communities to celebrate peacefully. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee emphasized that her government respects all religious sentiments but would not tolerate disruptions.
“Everyone has the right to celebrate. But no one should misuse religion to provoke unrest. Law and order will be enforced strictly,” she said during a press briefing.
Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the state of suppressing Hindu festivals. BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar criticized the heightened alert and said:
“Why does the government fear Ram Navami? Let Hindus celebrate without interference. If violence occurs, act against the culprits, not the devotees.”
Past Violence Increases Tension
Memories of previous years continue to spark concern. In 2017 and 2018, several areas such as Raniganj, Bardhaman, and Asansol experienced violence during Ram Navami processions. Those clashes involved stone-pelting and arson, causing multiple injuries and arrests.
In light of those incidents, local communities now approach the festivities with mixed emotions. Some express excitement, while others worry about safety.
“I love celebrating Ram Navami, but I also fear what might happen. We just want peace this time,” said Sahana Das, a resident of Bardhaman.
Cities Prep for Spiritual Celebrations
Despite the concerns, preparations continue across the state. In Kolkata, organizers have decorated temples and set up pandals to host Ram Katha sessions and Ram Leela performances. Organizers expect thousands to attend each event, especially in the evenings.
Some groups have also planned to carry traditional weapons like swords and tridents during the processions. However, the administration has issued a strong warning—anyone carrying weapons without proper permission could face legal consequences.
A local police officer explained, “We welcome celebrations, but carrying weapons violates safety protocols. We’ll take strict action if needed.”
Community Groups Advocate for Unity
Several civil society groups and interfaith organizations have stepped in to promote harmony. The West Bengal Interfaith Council, along with peace groups, urged people to observe the festival respectfully and avoid provocative actions.
In a joint appeal, they stated:
“Ram Navami must remain a celebration of peace. We request citizens of all religions to support unity and respect each other’s beliefs.”
Their efforts include public meetings, street plays, and community meals to foster mutual understanding.
Implications for National Politics
This year’s Ram Navami falls just ahead of the 2025 Lok Sabha elections, adding a political dimension to the event. Large religious gatherings often influence voter sentiment and mobilization. With West Bengal playing a crucial role in national politics, all eyes remain on how the state handles the upcoming processions.
The Union Home Ministry has asked for regular reports from the state regarding law and order. Central observers may also visit sensitive districts to ensure unbiased security arrangements.
Citizens Call for Calm
Many citizens across Bengal have voiced a simple demand—let the festival pass in peace. Whether Hindu or Muslim, they want to celebrate or observe the day without fear or violence.
“Religion should bring people together, not tear them apart. Let this year be different,” said Mohammed Anwar, a schoolteacher in Howrah.
Conclusion
As Bengal prepares for Ram Navami 2025, the scale of the celebration reflects both spiritual enthusiasm and underlying tensions. With 5,000 processions planned and thousands expected to join, the real challenge lies in maintaining peaceful coexistence.
The Hindu Jagran Manch, local communities, and law enforcement must work together to ensure that Ram Navami becomes a moment of cultural pride, not political unrest.
Outbound Link:
For live updates and official safety instructions, visit the West Bengal Police official website.
