Several incidents of theft have been reported in Gangasagar Mela camps at Outram Ghat, where hundreds of sadhus and saints are assembled to move to the Sagar island for the holy dip on 14th January.
According to the reports, several sadhus have reported complaints of theft of belongings and mobile phones. This is raised serious questions about the security arrangements at the Outram Ghat fairgrounds.
The sadhus and saints have expressed strong resentment over these incidents. They say that within just a few days of the fairs’ commencement, anti-social elements have started committing thefts.
They claimed that the incidents of theft are increasing, especially at night, due to low security. The sadhus and saints have demanded the deployment of additional police forces, installation of CCTV cameras, and regular police patrols at night in the fairgrounds.
Naga Sadhu Pagla Baba, who has come all the way from Kamakhya, said that for the past 15 years, he has been traveling to Gangasagar by train after staying at Outram Ghat for a few days.
However, this time, after staying for only a few days, his mobile phone was stolen. He further stated that a complaint has been filed at the local police station, but no concrete action has been taken so far.
The mobile phone contained several important links and contacts. He has appealed to the administration to take strict action against the culprits.
At the same time, another Sadhu Somnath Maharaj reported that antisocial elements stole his belongings just a few days after the fair officially began. This incident has caused him considerable distress, and he feels unsafe.
Another sadhu Pancham Nath stated that his bag, money, and documents were stolen.
It remains to be seen how seriously the administration takes these complaints and what steps it will take regarding security arrangements.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday had kicked off the Gangasagar Mela through remote control from the transit campground at Outram Ghat.
Santosh Sandilya is a journalist and digital content editor for TheKolkatan.com, covering culture, people, heritage, food, and everyday city-based stories. He focuses on clear, factual reporting with a people-first approach.
Email: thekolkatan@gmail.com
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