Kolkata Airport Mosque Entry Suspended Over Security Concerns, CM Adhikari Defends Move
The West Bengal government has defended the temporary suspension of entry passes for congregational prayers at a mosque within the Kolkata airport, citing national security. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated on Sunday that the airport's critical geopolitical location near China and Bangladesh requires strict security measures.
Speaking to reporters after a BJP organisational meeting in Purba Medinipur, Mr. Adhikari said, 'National security and security of the airport will gain priority over everything else.' He emphasised that the airport cannot keep its gates open to outsiders.
The mosque in question, the over-136-year-old Gouripur Jama Masjid (also known as Bankra Mosque), is located in close proximity to the secondary runway within the airport premises. Airport authorities suspended 'namaz' for three days starting July 11, 2026, citing renovation work.
Local BJP MLA Sourav Sikdar raised security concerns, noting that the mosque lies in a high-security zone (Level 3) and that visitors do not require background verification. He claimed the mosque's presence affects full operational use of the runways and poses potential risks, especially given VIP movements.
Siddiqullah Chowdhury, president of the mosque committee and a former minister in the previous government, opposed the suspension. He argued that the mosque has existed for over 135 years and that entry passes should not be halted without consensus and prior intimation.
Responding to Chowdhury's objections, CM Adhikari remarked that they were 'raised in a mild tone' because the new government is in power, implying that the previous government would have faced stronger opposition. He urged all citizens to obey the law and practice religion as a personal matter without influencing others.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between security requirements and religious practices at sensitive installations. The suspension remains temporary, with further discussions expected between authorities and the mosque committee.
