Agartala, September 25, 2025: The Twipra Students’ Federation (TSF) has lodged a strong protest against the alleged forcible collection of Durga Puja donations from students by various clubs and puja committees.
On Thursday, TSF leaders submitted a deputation to Additional SP Dhruba Nath, urging immediate administrative action to stop the practice.
According to the student body, many students from different parts of the state who are currently studying in Agartala are being compelled to pay hefty amounts in the name of puja subscriptions. TSF stated that most of these students come from ordinary or economically weaker families, and such financial demands are causing both mental and economic distress.
While clarifying that it respects the religious and cultural importance of Durga Puja, TSF maintained that “forcing anyone to pay subscriptions is completely unethical. Contributing to a puja should be entirely voluntary if someone wishes to donate even ₹10, no one should object.”
The organization also expressed concern that despite Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha’s public announcement that no club or organization can force anyone to pay puja donations, the practice continues unchecked.
TSF has appealed to the administration to issue strict directives to police stations and concerned offices to ensure compliance with the CM’s order and safeguard the students’ right to voluntary contributions.
