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West Bengal News Updated Jun 2, 2026

Suvendu Adhikari Proposes Saffron Makeover for Taraknath Temple

West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari visited the historic Taraknath Temple in Hooghly and proposed changing its colour from blue and white to saffron. He discussed development plans and highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming state visit. Adhikari also referenced a historic 1946 resolution by Syama Prasad Mookerjee asserting Bengal's place in India. Additionally, he announced the first phase of cash transfers under the Annapurna scheme starting June 3.

"Change colour to saffron": Suvendu Adhikari visits Hooghly's Taraknath Temple, outlines heritage development plans

Hooghly, June 2

West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday offered prayers at the historic Taraknath Temple in Tarakeswar in Hooghly district and spoke about plans for the temple's development and preservation of its heritage.

Speaking to ANI after offering prayers, Adhikari said that although his visit was linked to administrative engagements, seeking blessings at the temple was an important part of his trip.

"The visit to Tarakeshwar was primarily an administrative engagement, but as a devotee, I could not miss seeking the darshan of Baba Mahadev, who holds a special place in the hearts of all in Bengal. A great deal of work needs to be done here, including changing the colour to saffron from blue and white, reflecting its spiritual significance. This is the people's government," Adhikari stated.

Adhikari also spoke about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposed visit to the state and said preliminary preparations had begun.

"Regarding PM Modi's visit, the PMO will give more information. It will be a government program, and I am starting from today the preparatory meetings," he added.

Referring to Tarakeswar's historical significance, Adhikari said that a historic resolution was passed there in April 1946 under the leadership of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, asserting that Bengal would remain a part of India.

"In Tarakeshwar from April 4th to 6th, 1946, Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee passed a historic resolution that we will stay in India, and we won't go with Pakistan. On June 20th, Statehood Day commemoration, we will honour Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary. Tarakeshwar holds immense historical and cultural significance, and the government is committed to highlighting this heritage while driving further development and progress in the region," he said.

The BJP leader also said that the first phase of direct cash transfers under the Annapurna scheme would begin from June 3.

"Tomorrow, we will transfer the money for the Annapurana scheme to those who have filled up their forms. All promises are made after careful consideration and are executed faithfully. However, infiltrators within the system, including those who violate laws, refuse vaccines, or don't send their children to school, will not receive any financial assistance..." Adhikari firmly asserted.

Earlier in the day, Adhikari held a Janata Darbar at the BJP office in Salt Lake, Kolkata, where he interacted with members of the public and heard their grievances.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Vikram M

Good to see a political leader visiting temples and talking about heritage. The reference to Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee's 1946 resolution is important - reminds us of Bengal's commitment to India. But actions speak louder than colours, let's see the development work.

Arjun K

The Annapurna scheme cash transfer starting tomorrow is good news for poor families. But I wonder why they are denying benefits to those who didn't take vaccines or send kids to school? That seems harsh - many poor people can't afford education or have health issues. 🤔

Ananya R

Tarakeswar is a very important pilgrimage site. I hope the government actually does something for the temple's infrastructure rather than just changing colours. The blue and white scheme has been there for decades - why suddenly change it? 🤷‍♀️

Rohit P

Respected Suvendu Adhikari is doing good work by highlighting Bengal's heritage. The reference to 1946 resolution is crucial - it shows how Bengal always chose India over Pakistan. PM Modi's visit will be great for the state. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳

Kavya N

I appreciate the heritage focus, but changing a temple's colour seems unnecessary. There are real issues like potholes near the temple, lack of drinking water for devotees, and poor lighting. These should be addressed first. Colour change is just optics. 😒

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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