The now dismantled Puja Mandap on land owned by the Bangladesh Railways in the capital's Khilkhet was 'unauthorised', according to the Ministry of Railways.

In a statement circulated to the media on Friday, the Public Relations Officer of the ministry, Rezaul Karim Siddiqui, said that the Mandap was removed on Thursday (26 June) as part of an eviction drive targeting illegal structures on Bangladesh Railway land.

The statement also mentioned that attempts to spread misinformation regarding the issue are being observed through various channels. 

Last year, during Durga Puja, the local Hindu community installed a temporary Puja Mandap on a piece of land in Khilkhet without prior approval. Initially, the Bangladesh Railway requested the organisers to dismantle the Mandap. Subsequently, permission was granted on the condition that the Mandap would be removed after the festival.

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At that time, the Puja organisers assured the railway authorities that the Mandap would be removed following the conclusion of the Puja. However, despite the festival's end in October 2024, they did not remove the Mandap. Despite repeated requests, they did not comply.

Moreover, the organisers took steps to establish a permanent temple at the site. Despite several warnings to desist from such efforts, they continued to pursue this plan.

In the emerging situation, the temporary Mandap was removed on Thursday following the completion of all legal procedures, in accordance with the government's mandate to prevent the illegal occupation of public land. The idol from the temple was immersed in the Balu River with due respect.

During the operation, 150 shops, political party offices, informal markets, and the temporary temple were removed.

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The authorities have urged everyone to refrain from spreading confusion or engaging in provocative activities related to this matter.

Meanwhile, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday urged all to refrain from reacting to any matter disregarding the facts and ground realities, stressing that the country remains firmly committed to safeguarding the rights of all communities, including the  protection of places of worship.