Archive · 29 Nov 2025
Siliguri Mayor Defends Mahakal Temple Construction
The mayor of Siliguri, Gautam Deb, is supporting the state's decision to build a Mahakal temple near the city.
He believes it will help tourism, which brings many jobs.
However, a leader named Asok Bhattacharya disagrees.
He thinks the government should focus on creating jobs instead of building temples.
The land where the temple will be built was originally planned for an IT park.
The mayor also talked about other projects the government is doing to help tourism and the tea industry.
He mentioned that wages for tea workers have increased a lot over the years.
The debate continues about what is best for the area.
Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb defends the construction of a Mahakal temple as a boost for tourism.
CPM veteran Asok Bhattacharya argues that job creation should be prioritized over temple construction.
The temple is planned for a 17-acre plot in Matigara, originally earmarked for an IT park.
The state government has recognized tourism as an industry, generating significant employment.
Deb highlights government initiatives in tourism and the tea sector, including increased wages for tea workers.
- Who
- Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb and CPM veteran Asok Bhattacharya
- What
- Controversy over the construction of a Mahakal temple in Siliguri
- When
- Announced last month, approved on Monday
- Where
- Matigara, on the outskirts of Siliguri
- Why
- To promote tourism and cultural identity, according to the mayor; to prioritize job creation, according to Bhattacharya
- Location
- Matigara, Siliguri
- Land Area
- 17 acres
- Proposed by
- Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee
- Approved by
- State Cabinet
- Opposing View
- CPM veteran Asok Bhattacharya
- Tea Worker Wages
- Increased from ₹67 in 2011 to ₹250
