Sun Oct 05 21:05:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Despite severe flooding in North Bengal that has resulted in at least 23 deaths and displaced thousands, the West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, proceeded with the annual Durga Puja carnival in Kolkata. This decision has drawn strong criticism from opposition parties, including the BJP and CPI(M), who argue that the Chief Minister should have prioritized visiting the flood-affected areas and providing relief, rather than attending the festive event. The opposition accuses Banerjee of misplaced priorities and neglecting the needs of the people of North Bengal.

**News Article:**

**Kolkata Carnival Sparks Outrage Amid Bengal Flood Crisis**

**Kolkata, October 6, 2025** – West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is facing mounting criticism after the state government proceeded with its annual Durga Puja carnival in Kolkata on Sunday, even as large parts of North Bengal grapple with devastating floods. The floods have reportedly claimed at least 23 lives in the Darjeeling region and displaced tens of thousands more.

The grand carnival, held on Kolkata’s Red Road, showcased elaborate Durga Puja idols and cultural performances from 116 of Kolkata’s major puja pandals. Thousands of spectators attended the event, which was also graced by the presence of Chief Minister Banerjee and several film personalities.

However, the decision to proceed with the celebration while North Bengal reels from the natural disaster has ignited a firestorm of criticism from opposition parties. Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari of the BJP questioned Banerjee’s priorities, asking, “Why isn’t the Chief Minister eager to go to North Bengal quickly?” He accused her government of neglecting the needs of the flood-affected population.

State BJP president Samik Bhattacharya echoed these sentiments, stating that “today was not a day of festivities” and that the Chief Minister should have cancelled the carnival to stand in solidarity with the victims.

CPI(M) State Secretary Md. Salim also condemned the event, highlighting the stark contrast between the festive atmosphere in Kolkata and the “procession of deaths” in flood-ravaged North Bengal.

Chief Minister Banerjee has announced plans to visit North Bengal on Monday, October 6, along with Chief Secretary Manoj Pant. However, the opposition remains unconvinced, arguing that her presence at the carnival sent the wrong message and demonstrated a lack of empathy for those suffering in the north. The controversy underscores the ongoing political tensions in West Bengal and raises questions about the government’s response to the flood crisis.

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