‘For his long life’: Delhi CM asks to put PM Modi’s photo beside Maa Durga at pandals, sparks row

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has stirred a controversy after suggesting that organisers of Durga Puja pandals place a photograph of Prime Minister Narendra Modi near the feet of Goddess Durga during the festivities and seek blessings for his “health and long life”.

Gupta made the comment on September 6 while urging Durga Puja and Ramleela organisers to participate in the government’s ‘Sewa Pakhwada’, scheduled to begin on PM’s birthday, September 17.

The statement has triggered sharp political reactions. TMC MP Mahua Moitra criticised the remark on X, saying that “Bengali pride could not be compromised for political propaganda, even with offers of free electricity”.

AAP leader Saurabh Bhardwaj also hit out at Gupta, pointing out that Durga Puja pandals manage large budgets and feed thousands daily, and cannot be swayed by electricity subsidies. He further highlighted a message from the CR Park Kali Mandir Committee, which politely declined any political interference, stating, “No politics in Durga Puja, please.”

Opposition has accused Gupta of attempting to politicise a major religious festival.