West Bengal to extend full administrative support for Rath Yatra celebrations

The newly formed state government in West Bengal has decided to extend full administrative support for the Rath Yatra celebrations across all districts in the state, giving due importance to the cultural and religious importance to the festival dedicated to Lord Jagannath.

In a high-level administrative meeting held at Uttarkanya on Friday, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari instructed all District Magistrates to ensure that Rath Yatra celebrations are conducted peacefully.

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The Chief Minister directed district administrations to work closely with organisers and ensure adequate arrangements for thousands of devotees expected to participate in the annual chariot festival.

Officials have been asked to provide all necessary logistical and administrative assistance to facilitate the smooth conduct of the celebrations.

According to the government’s decision, traditional festivals with long-standing cultural and historical importance will receive full administrative cooperation while preserving their heritage and customs.

Sources indicated that the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs has already prepared a district-wise database documenting Rath Yatra celebrations across the state including details of the number of Rath Yatras held in each district, their historical background, and their cultural significance, enabling the administration to plan support measures more effectively.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, the state’s Tourism Minister Shankar Ghosh said it had been decided that every district administration would extend comprehensive support and assistance for this year’s Rath Yatra celebrations.