TMC Demands Apology from BJP’s Sukanta Majumdar Over Jagannath Temple Remark
In yet another fiery political clash in West Bengal, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has strongly condemned BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar over his alleged controversial remark on the Jagannath Temple in Digha. The TMC has termed the comment “blasphemous” and has demanded an immediate public retraction and apology from the BJP leader, accusing him of hurting religious sentiments and undermining the cultural pride of Bengal.
The controversy erupted after Sukanta Majumdar allegedly questioned the sanctity or relevance of the newly built Jagannath Temple in Digha, a project recently inaugurated by the TMC-led state government to promote religious tourism in the seaside town. Though the exact words of his statement remain under scrutiny, TMC leaders argue that his tone and intent were deliberately dismissive and offensive toward a revered Hindu deity and religious tradition.
Senior TMC spokespersons launched a scathing attack, stating,
“This is not just an insult to a temple. This is an insult to millions of Jagannath devotees across India. BJP leaders should stop playing with people’s faith. We demand Sukanta Majumdar immediately retract his blasphemous statement.”
.@DrSukantaBJP, if you have even an ounce of shame left, you should apologise and retract your BLASPHEMOUS comments!
— All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) June 23, 2025
Calling the sacred Jagannath Dham an “amusement park” is not just an insult to Bengal, it’s an insult to every devotee, to our culture, and to the crores of… pic.twitter.com/Fpn3l4ZLQF
The Jagannath Temple in Digha has become a symbolic initiative for Bengal’s cultural development and religious tourism strategy. The temple’s construction is part of the state government’s broader effort to boost infrastructure and footfall in the region, while also reinforcing Bengal’s historical ties with Vaishnavite traditions.
Political observers note that the temple, though relatively new, carries high emotional value and serves as a religious alternative for eastern India, especially for pilgrims who cannot travel to the more distant Puri shrine. Against this backdrop, any statement casting doubt or sarcasm upon its sanctity is bound to spark controversy.
The BJP, on the other hand, has defended Majumdar, arguing that his remarks were being misrepresented for political mileage. However, this has only intensified the TMC’s campaign, which now includes public calls for a legal complaint if no apology is issued.
As West Bengal heads into another election cycle in the coming years, such cultural flashpoints are expected to remain potent triggers for political mobilization and ideological battles.
