Wed Feb 26 17:04:41 UTC 2025: ## Kolkata KMC Revokes Controversial Id-ul-Fitr Holiday Circular Amidst BJP Protest
**Kolkata, Feb 26, 2025** – The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has withdrawn a circular granting a two-day holiday for Id-ul-Fitr in KMC-run schools following strong protests from the state BJP leadership. The circular, issued on February 25th, also controversially omitted a holiday for Viswakarma Puja, sparking immediate backlash.
The BJP accused the Trinamool Congress-led government of “Muslim appeasement,” with state general secretary Jagannath Chattopadhyay alleging the move was aimed at increasing the Muslim population and hurting the sentiments of Bengali Hindus. He even issued a stark warning, urging voters to oust the Trinamool Congress in the 2026 elections. BJP leader Amit Malviya echoed these sentiments on X, criticizing the KMC’s decision and accusing the West Bengal government of creating an “Islamic Caliphate.”
The KMC responded by stating the circular was issued without proper authorization from the competent authority. A KMC councillor, Sandipan Saha, clarified that the Chief Manager of the Education Department acted beyond his authority in issuing the holiday list. He confirmed that the KMC has initiated disciplinary action against the responsible officer and will issue a revised holiday list conforming to the state government’s guidelines. The KMC emphasized that holiday decisions are solely the prerogative of the state government.
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