No Durga Puja restrictions, clarifies Kolkata Police amid social media rumour
Kolkata Police debunks Durga Puja 2025 restriction rumours. Key details
'There is no directive to halt or restrict any Durga Puja celebrations,' Kolkata Police confirmed in an official statement on X (formerly Twitter).WHY ARE THESE CROWD PLANS BEING MADE THEN?What's actually happening is standard procedure. During Durga Puja, high footfall pandals, like those in North and South Kolkata, often draw thousands of visitors every hour. To ensure smooth movement and reduce overcrowding, the police chalk out crowd circulation plans.
These aren't new. Every year, Kolkata Police works with organisers to plan the flow of people, especially at top-billed pujas like Bagbazar, Ekdalia, Deshapriya Park, and Sreebhumi. These steps help in handling medical emergencies, preventing stampedes, and ensuring a better experience for everyone.'These measures are preventive in nature and should not be misconstrued as interference in traditional observances or community celebrations,' the advisory said.FAKE SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS CREATING PANICIn the past few days, screenshots and voice notes have been doing the rounds on WhatsApp and social media claiming that Kolkata Police plans to stop late-night entry into pandals or shut down big-budget pujas due to 'crowd risks.'NONE OF THESE CLAIMS ARE TRUEOfficials have clearly asked citizens to rely only on verified information and avoid forwarding unverified content. 'We request all citizens to stay informed through official channels and avoid sharing unverified or misleading content,' the statement added.PUJA SPIRIT REMAINS INTACT, WITH SAFETY IN PLACEKolkata's Durga Puja is a UNESCO-recognised cultural celebration, and the city takes great pride in hosting it every year. The police have reassured pandal organisers and the public that all festivities will go on as planned.Crowd control, traffic planning, emergency services, and civic partnerships are part of the blueprint that makes Durga Puja one of the most organised festivals in the country.So if you're planning to visit the pandals this year, you don't need to worry about any last-minute changes — but **keep an eye on official police handles** for any genuine updates.- Ends
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