Namaz can be offered freely, but court approval needed for pujas: BJP's Nitin Nabin alleges 'double standards' over religious permissions in West Bengal

BJP national president Nitin Nabin alleged "double standards" over religious permission in West Bengal, saying namaz can be offered freely, while court approval is needed to organise pujas or erect pandals.

Nabin said that the situation is "unfortunate", while speaking to reporters after offering prayers at the Dakshineswar Temple on the outskirts of Kolkata.

"Here, there is permission to offer namaz, but to perform puja and erect pandals, one has to seek permission from the high court," he claimed.

Further, Nabin said he prayed to Goddess Kali for the happiness, peace and prosperity of the people of the state.

"I offered puja at Dakshineswar and sought the blessings of the goddess for the well-being of the people of the state and for building a 'Viksit Bengal' and 'Sonar Bangla'," he said.