Attepmts being made to spread confusion over temple 'demolition': Railway Ministry

The Ministry of Railways has claimed that some individuals are attempting to spread misinformation through images and videos shared on social media following the removal of a temporary puja mandap lacated at Khilkhet in Dhaka.

In a statement issued Friday (June 27), Railway Ministry Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan said, "The pavilion was built during Durga Puja last year without prior approval. Later, conditional permission was granted for the event, with the understanding that the structure would be removed afterward."

However, the adviser said the organisers failed to remove the pavilion despite repeated requests and instead tried to establish a permanent temple on the site. He stated that the eviction was carried out on Thursday after completing all legal procedures as part of a broader effort to reclaim government railway land from illegal encroachments.

The eviction also included the removal of more than 100 unauthorised establishments, including shops, political offices, and a raw market, before dismantling the mandap. The idol was respectfully immersed in the Balu River following religious customs, the railway authorities said.

The railway authorities further urged the public to avoid confusion and refrain from provocative activities.