Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh Warns Against Corruption in the Name of Durga Puja

Ghosh's remarks came on Tuesday, hours after the Enforcement Directorate conducted searches at 15 locations in connection with a money laundering investigation involving former state minister Indranil Sen and others.

Speaking to reporters in Midnapore, Ghosh said the government would act against anyone found engaging in financial irregularities, irrespective of their political or social standing.

“There is no tolerance for corruption, whoever it may be, and no one can act arbitrarily. As soon as a complaint is received, immediate action will be taken,” he said.

Ghosh also warned against collecting money from the public by invoking Durga Puja-related activities without authorisation. “Collecting money in the name of Durga Puja and engaging in such activities is illegal. The government is taking measures against it,” he said.

The minister's comments followed the ED's searches at 15 premises on Tuesday morning as part of its investigation into alleged financial irregularities linked to an organisation involved in Durga Puja preview events.

According to officials, the investigation concerns the Mahanirban Road Mass Art Society, which is headed by Indranil Sen's wife. The agency is examining allegations that the organisation collected substantial amounts from the public by allegedly claiming that the funds were intended for an entity associated with UNESCO, and that the money was subsequently used for personal purposes.

Ghosh also commented on the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in West Bengal, rejecting claims that the process had caused frustration among voters.

“SIR has taken place and the process is still ongoing. It will gradually become clear. But the election has already taken place, and there is no frustration among the people regarding it,” he said.

He further claimed that voter turnout had increased and said the Opposition had been unable to raise the issue because of its electoral performance.

“People cast their votes, the voting percentage increased and a good result was achieved. The Opposition lost, so they have nothing to say,” Ghosh said.

Responding to Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee's legal move seeking restoration of his Z-plus security, Ghosh questioned the need for such a security cover in West Bengal.

“No one needs Z-plus security in Bengal, so why should Z-plus security be given?” he said.

Ghosh also linked the security issue to the existence of corruption-related proceedings, arguing that granting such protection to a person facing a corruption case would undermine the administration.

The minister's remarks come amid heightened political activity in West Bengal, with the ED's latest searches and the continuing debate over electoral processes and security arrangements involving political leaders drawing attention across the state.