Bangladesh Bans Fairs Near Durga Puja Mandaps, Citing Links to Cannabis and Alcohol

Quick Summary:

• Bangladesh has announced that no fairs will be allowed near Durga Puja mandaps this year.
• The decision was attributed to concerns about anti-social behavior, including the consumption of cannabis and alcohol, associated with such gatherings.
• Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, home affairs adviser, stated that one or two shops might potentially be permitted near the mandaps but only with permission from puja celebration committees.
• No concerns where raised by festival committees regarding this decision, and they expressed optimism for peaceful Durga Puja celebrations.
• Around 33,000 puja mandaps are expected to be set up across Bangladesh for this year’s festivities.
• A new mobile application has been developed to enhance security during the celebrations.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
This policy change highlights Bangladesh’s attempt to proactively address safety concerns during Durga Puja-one of the largest Hindu festivals celebrated in predominantly Muslim-majority Bangladesh. Barring fairs near religious sites aims at reducing potential disruptions linked to anti-social activities while allowing small-scale commerce under regulated conditions shows a balanced approach toward community engagement.With around 33,000 planned puja mandaps and a newly introduced mobile application for enhanced security measures, these steps seem geared towards fostering peaceful celebrations amidst growing communal sensitivities globally in South Asia.

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