West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announces Rs 500 honorarium hike for purohits, muezzins

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on social media platform X announced a Rs 500 increase in the monthly honorariums paid to purohits and muezzins, bringing the total to Rs 2000, saying the move recognises their role in sustaining the state’s social and cultural traditions.

“I am pleased to announce an increase of ₹500 in the monthly honorariums extended to our purohits and muezzins, whose service sustains the spiritual and social life of our communities,” Banerjee said in a post on X.

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She said the step reflects the government’s continued effort to support individuals who serve communities across the state. The chief minister added that the work done by such religious functionaries plays an important role in maintaining harmony and cultural continuity in society.

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The announcement comes as political activity intensifies ahead of the next elections to the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, expected in 2026, when all 294 seats in the assembly will go to the polls.