KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has defended the state government’s decision to relocate the historic Bankra Mosque located within the premises of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, stating that national security and aviation safety must take precedence over all other considerations. His remarks have intensified the political debate surrounding the proposed relocation of the mosque, with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) accusing the government of acting without adequate consultation with the local community.
The controversy emerged after authorities suspended public entry for congregational prayers at the mosque and announced plans to shift the structure because of its location near the airport’s operational area. According to officials, the mosque is situated around 165 metres from the airport’s secondary runway, creating long-standing concerns related to airport security, runway expansion and aviation infrastructure upgrades.
Adhikari Defends Government’s Stand
Speaking on the issue, Adhikari stressed that protecting strategic infrastructure is the government’s foremost responsibility. He said that the security of Kolkata’s international airport cannot be compromised, particularly given its strategic importance in eastern India. The Chief Minister noted that the airport serves a sensitive region due to its proximity to international borders and therefore requires stringent security measures.
Adhikari also rejected allegations that the state government was attempting to restrict religious freedom. He maintained that the administration respects every religion and that the decision was driven solely by security and operational requirements rather than religious considerations. According to him, ensuring the safety of passengers, airport staff and critical infrastructure remains the government’s highest priority.
Airport Expansion and Safety Plans
Airport authorities have explained that the mosque’s location has posed operational challenges for several years. Officials believe the structure affects future runway expansion plans and delays the installation of advanced Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), which are essential for improving aircraft operations during poor weather conditions. These technical limitations have reportedly prompted authorities to seek a long-term solution.
Historical Importance of the Mosque
The Bankra Mosque, also known as Gouripur Jama Masjid, is believed to be more than 130 years old and predates the establishment of the airport itself. Over the decades, it has remained an important place of worship for local residents. Its historical significance has made the relocation proposal particularly sensitive and has drawn attention from political leaders and community representatives alike.
Political Reactions Intensify
The Trinamool Congress has criticised the government’s approach. Senior party leader and MP Sougata Roy argued that any decision concerning the mosque should be taken only after discussions with members of the Muslim community. He said relocation, if required, should happen through mutual agreement rather than unilateral administrative action. Roy also warned that residents are anxious about the developments and called for dialogue to avoid unnecessary tension.
Supporting the government’s position, Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar said that concerns regarding the mosque’s location have existed for many years. He alleged that previous administrations avoided addressing the matter because of political considerations. According to Majumdar, relocating the mosque would remove obstacles to airport expansion while strengthening security arrangements around one of eastern India’s busiest airports.
Access Suspended Indefinitely
Airport authorities have meanwhile suspended entry to the mosque indefinitely, citing security concerns over unrestricted access into the airport’s operational zone. Officials indicated that earlier access procedures based on identity verification were no longer considered adequate for such a sensitive location. The move forms part of broader efforts to tighten security within airport premises.
Debate Over Heritage and Security
The issue has triggered wider discussions about balancing heritage conservation, religious sentiments and national security. Experts note that infrastructure projects involving religious or historical structures often require careful planning, transparent communication and community participation to minimise conflict while ensuring public safety.
For now, the West Bengal government has reiterated that its decision is based on aviation security assessments and operational requirements. Opposition leaders, however, continue to seek greater consultation with local residents before any permanent relocation is carried out.
With political parties taking sharply different positions, the future of the historic Bankra Mosque is expected to remain a significant issue in West Bengal’s political discourse. Authorities are likely to continue discussions over relocation while balancing security requirements, airport development and the sentiments of the local community.
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