West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday defended the proposed relocation of the Bankra Mosque near Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, saying national security and airport safety must take precedence.
The remarks came amid a political row over the suspension of entry passes for congregational prayers at the mosque and the state government’s decision to relocate the structure.
‘National security comes first’
Speaking on the controversy, Adhikari said that while his government respects religious freedom, unrestricted public access to a strategically important airport cannot be allowed.
He stressed that national security would remain the government’s top priority, noting the airport’s strategic location close to international borders.
The chief minister also rejected allegations that the government was interfering with religious practices. He said festivals such as Bakrid and Muharram had been observed peacefully while adhering to the law, adding that citizens are free to practise their religion without violating legal or security norms.
BJP Backs Relocation
Union minister Sukanta Majumdar> also supported the relocation, arguing that the mosque has long been cited as an obstacle to airport expansion.
He alleged that previous governments avoided addressing the issue due to “appeasement politics” and said relocating the mosque would improve airport security and facilitate infrastructure development.
TMC Seeks Consensus
Trinamool Congress MP Sougata Roy opposed the indefinite suspension of entry to the mosque and said any decision regarding its relocation should be taken only after consulting the local Muslim community.
Why Is the Mosque Being Relocated?
The Bankra Mosque, also known as Gouripur Jama Masjid, is believed to be over 130 years old, predating the airport itself. It is located around 165 metres from the airport’s secondary runway.
Airport authorities recently suspended congregational prayers for three days, citing renovation work.
According to aviation authorities, the mosque’s proximity to the runway has affected airport operations by:
- Restricting runway expansion.
- Delaying installation of advanced Instrument Landing Systems (ILS).
- Raising security concerns due to public access within the airport premises.
The state government has maintained that relocating the mosque is necessary to improve aviation safety and support future airport infrastructure projects.
