Idol Artisan Assaulted Over Puja Donation Dispute in Kolkata

On Sunday, October 15th, 2025, a 61-year-old idol decoration artiste named Paritosh Chakraborty was allegedly assaulted by members of a north Kolkata club over a Kali Puja donation dispute. The incident occurred around 11 PM in the Maniktala area of the city.

Chakraborty, a resident of Muraripukur, has been making and decorating idol accessories for years. He also owns a salon, which has been shut due to financial difficulties. The local club that organizes the annual Kali Puja had requested a donation from Chakraborty last year, but he was unable to contribute. This year, the club demanded a donation of Rs 2,001, citing dues from the previous year.

According to Chakraborty, the club members approached him on Sunday night as he was returning home from work. Despite his assurance to contribute according to his capacity before Kali Puja began on Monday, the club members insisted on being given the full amount right there. When Chakraborty said he was not carrying money, the situation escalated, and he was allegedly knocked to the ground and beaten up before being forced to walk with the men to his house.

Chakraborty sustained a head injury that required five stitches. His son has filed a police complaint, and four persons have been arrested in connection with the incident. The police have started an investigation into the matter.