West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has taken charge of preparations for a major global religious event scheduled for early 2026. She chaired a crucial planning meeting at the state secretariat, Nabanna, on Monday to ensure the smooth conduct of the World Ijtema in Hooghly district.
Massive Congregation Requires Meticulous Planning
The World Ijtema, an annual three-day congregation organized by the Tablighi Jamaat, is set to be held at Puinan in Dadpur, Hooghly, from January 2 to January 4, 2026. The event attracts several lakh pilgrims from across India and around the world, with a significant contingent expected from neighbouring Bangladesh.
During the meeting with Muslim clerics and senior officials, CM Banerjee emphasized the scale of the gathering and the need for impeccable coordination. She stressed that the state must ensure all pilgrims have a hassle-free experience, which reflects well on the prestige of both West Bengal and the nation.
Multi-Departmental Action Plan Unveiled
The Chief Minister has directed a slew of government departments to work in unison for the event. Key focus areas include transport, public health, and emergency services.
Transport and Traffic Management: Given the massive influx, special attention will be paid to transport facilities. Pilgrims will primarily use routes via the Vidyasagar Setu and Santragachi through the Kona Expressway. To prevent chaos, police have been instructed to keep state highways free of traffic jams. Additional police personnel will be deployed at critical traffic points like Dankuni and Dadpur.
Infrastructure and Facilities: The Public Health Engineering (PHE) and Public Works departments have been tasked with providing necessary infrastructure and utilities. The state administration will set up helpdesks at important arrival points, including the airport and major railway stations, to assist pilgrims.
Security and Harassment-Free Environment
CM Banerjee issued clear instructions to ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees. State Police and Kolkata Police have been directed to work in close coordination to guarantee that pilgrims are not subjected to any form of harassment. The overall security blueprint aims to manage the large crowds while allowing devotees to peacefully participate in the religious activities.
Over the three days, devotees will engage in prayers and listen to Islamic scholars recite and interpret verses from the Quran. The state government's comprehensive plan covers every aspect from arrival to departure, aiming to host a seamless and spiritually fulfilling event for all.
