Army Denies Permission for Eid Prayer on Kolkata’s Red Road Due to Military Requirement
Historic congregation halted as Army withholds permission for use of land in front of Fort William
Kolkata — In a development that has stirred community response and public discourse, the Indian Army has denied permission for the annual Eid-Ul-Zuha Namaz on Red Road in Kolkata, citing “military purpose” as the reason. The Calcutta Khilafat Committee, which organizes the yearly prayer attended by thousands of worshippers, received an official communication from the Army declining their request for the 2025 event.
The decision ends a long-standing tradition where Muslims from across Kolkata would gather in front of the Eastern Command Headquarters at Fort William—a site of symbolic unity and religious significance during major Islamic festivals. The event, which often features the presence of senior state officials including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, will now need to be relocated or cancelled.
Army Cites Operational Requirements
According to a letter issued by a Colonel-rank officer from the Headquarters Bengal Sub Area, the denial was based on the need for the land for “military purpose.” The communication specifically mentioned that permission to use the general area of Red Road between June 7 and 8, 2025, for Eid prayers had not been granted.
“The permission for conduct of congregational prayer for Eid-Uz-Zoha in general area Red Road… is not granted as the area is required for military purpose,” the letter stated.
The Army has also formally informed both the Kolkata Police and the Calcutta Khilafat Committee, marking a clear administrative stance on the use of Fort William-adjacent grounds.
Organisers Respond, Seek Alternative Options
Javed Ahmed Khan, Minister for State Disaster Management and a senior member of the Calcutta Khilafat Committee, confirmed receipt of the Army’s letter. He added that a meeting was convened at the committee’s Zakaria Street office to decide the next steps.
“We have received the letter. The committee members will meet to discuss and take a decision on the matter,” Khan told local media.
The committee had applied for permission on May 10, maintaining continuity with previous years where they sought clearance to hold the Namaz from the Netaji Statue to the East Gate of Fort William.
Historical Context: Red Road’s Religious Role
The Red Road Eid congregation is not just a religious ceremony but a cultural landmark in Kolkata’s communal fabric. Over the years, it has come to symbolize secular coexistence and religious tolerance, often attended by political leaders from various parties.
Notably, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has made multiple appearances at Red Road Eid gatherings, addressing the crowd and extending festive greetings. Her presence is widely seen as a political and cultural gesture affirming the state’s commitment to inclusive values.
The Army’s decision to withhold permission this year has therefore raised concerns among community leaders and civil society groups, who are now seeking alternative venues to avoid cancellation of the large-scale event.
Community Sentiment and Political Ramifications
While the Army has cited military use as its reason, some political observers see the decision in light of broader socio-political shifts. With Kolkata being a hub of religious diversity, denial of space for public prayer gatherings—especially one as significant as Eid-Ul-Zuha—is likely to stir political discourse, particularly with state and parliamentary elections looming.
There is also apprehension among local residents that the denial may set a precedent, affecting future access to the Red Road area for similar events, both religious and cultural.