Mon Mar 31 17:19:16 UTC 2025: ## Ram Navami Posters Featuring Modi and Adhikari Spark Tensions in West Bengal

**Kolkata, March 31, 2025** – The appearance of Ram Navami posters featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari across Kolkata has heightened tensions in West Bengal, just days before the religious festival on April 6th. The posters, which also depict the Ayodhya Ramjanmabhoomi Temple, were put up on Monday, the same day as Id-ul-Fitr, in prominent locations across the city.

Mr. Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition, has announced plans for over 2,000 Ram Navami rallies across the state, claiming participation from over 10 million Hindus. He also announced the commencement of construction for a new Ram temple. These announcements follow a series of public statements by BJP leaders urging large-scale participation in Ram Navami celebrations.

Concerns have been raised over inflammatory rhetoric. A local BJP leader was caught on video announcing an armed rally, prompting alarm. BJP MP Samik Bhattacharya defended the party’s actions, questioning why they should tolerate the perceived marginalization of Ram in Bengal.

However, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Trinamool Congress accused both the BJP and the Left of instigating religious disharmony. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) echoed these concerns, alleging collusion between the BJP and Trinamool.

West Bengal police are on high alert following reports of planned attempts to incite communal violence during the Id-ul-Fitr and Ram Navami celebrations. Police have already discovered provocative posters and are warning the public against responding to incitements. The state has witnessed multiple instances of communal clashes during past Ram Navami celebrations. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further unrest.

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