non-hindus-barred-post-poll-shift-sparks-temple-entry-row

Controversy has erupted at the revered Kankalitala Sati Peeth Temple, located near Bolpur in Birbhum district, after local BJP leaders and workers allegedly imposed restrictions on the entry of “non-Hindus” into the temple premises. According to sources, soon after the recent political transition in the state—where the BJP is set to form the government—banners were put up at the temple gate declaring that only Hindus would be permitted entry.

 

The banner reads: “Joy Ma Kankali! The entry of non-believers into this temple is strictly prohibited; only adherents of the Hindu faith are permitted to enter.”

 

On Tuesday, the temple premises, including its sacred pond (kund), were ritually purified using Ganges water. Temple priests and sebayits (caretakers) were also allegedly instructed not to allow individuals from the Muslim community into the temple or include them in its trust board.

 

The temple falls under the administrative jurisdiction of the Kankalitala Gram Panchayat, which has historically overseen its maintenance, renovation, and organisation of religious events such as pujas and fairs. In the past, local leaders, including Mamun Sheikh and currently Alep Sheikh, have been associated with the management of the area and temple-related activities.

 

Sources further claim that leaders linked to the TMC were actively involved in the temple’s administration earlier. Notably, Birbhum Zilla Parishad head Faizul Haque, also known as Kajal Sheikh, had reportedly visited the temple on multiple occasions and participated in events held on the premises.

 

The developments come amid reports of widespread post-poll unrest across West Bengal following the declaration of election results. Several districts, including Birbhum, have witnessed incidents of clashes, political realignments, and rising tensions.

 

The move to restrict entry marks a significant departure from earlier practices, where people of all communities were allowed to visit the temple. As of now, there has been no official statement from the district administration regarding the reported directives or the legality of such restrictions.