Durga Puja, one of Kolkata’s most anticipated and grand festivals, is celebrated with joy, devotion, and fervor. Each year, people eagerly await the arrival of Maa Durga, hoping for prosperity, happiness, and new beginnings. However, this year, amidst the vibrant celebrations in South Kolkata, Singhi Park Sarbojanin Durga Puja Committee found itself embroiled in a controversy that has shocked the city.
Phuchka Seller’s Stall Destroyed by Singhi Park Members
In a shocking incident that has gone viral on social media, members of the Singhi Park Sarbojanin Durga Puja Committee allegedly destroyed a phuchka seller’s stall near their pandal.
The incident was captured and shared by digital creator and model Barnali Bag on her Instagram (@bellatrixofficial_15). The video shows the helpless vendor standing next to his broken stall, pleading with committee members to stop trashing his belongings.
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The video further reveals the state of the vendor’s phuchka stall after the altercation, with cane stands, plastic bags, boiled potatoes, spices, and small leaf plates scattered across the ground. The phuchka seller can be seen begging the members to spare his stall, offering to leave and not sell in the vicinity of the pandal. Despite his desperate pleas, the members continued to destroy his livelihood.
Outrage on Social Media
Since the video surfaced, it has garnered widespread attention and sparked outrage across various social media platforms. Netizens have been quick to condemn the actions of the Singhi Park committee members, with many calling for a boycott of the pandal.
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The hashtag “Boycott Singhi Park” has been trending, and comments across social media platforms are filled with expressions of disgust and disappointment.
গতকাল রাত্রে আমাদের পূজা মণ্ডপের কাছে একটি অনভিপ্রেত ঘটনা ঘটে যা আমাদের পুজো কমিটি কখনোই সমর্থন করে না। উপরোক্ত ঘটনায়…
Posted by Singhi Park Sarbojanin Durga Puja Committee on Tuesday, October 8, 2024
While the phuchka seller faced losses, some bystanders and good-hearted individuals reportedly stepped in to help, offering him money and support. Many have commended those who stood up for the vendor during the incident.
Singhi Park Committee Issues a Statement
Following the social media backlash, the Singhi Park Sarbojanin Durga Puja Committee issued an official statement. The committee distanced itself from the actions of the individuals involved and expressed regret over the incident. They assured the public that steps had been taken against the committee members responsible and that the phuchka seller had been compensated for his losses.
The committee’s statement, however, has not been enough to quell the growing anger among the public. Many continue to demand stricter actions against those involved and have called for accountability from one of South Kolkata’s most esteemed Durga Puja organizers.
