Durga returns to Thakurgaon temple after 16yrs as Section 144 withdrawn

After 16 long years, joy and devotion have returned to the Sri Sri Rasik Roy Jiu Temple in Auliapur of Thakurgaon Sadar upazila, as the Hindu community prepares to celebrate Durga Puja following the withdrawal of Section 144, which had barred festivities at the site since 2009.

The ban was originally imposed after a deadly clash on 18 September 2009, between followers of the Sonatani and International Society for Krishna Consciousness (Iskcon) groups over the right to organise Durga Puja at the temple.

The violence left a temple servant Phul Babu dead, forcing the local administration to enforce Section 144 and assume control of the premises.

Since then, Durga Puja and other religious events had been suspended at the temple due to fears of further communal unrest.

This year, a breakthrough was reached through the efforts of the district administration, which successfully brokered an agreement between the two factions.

With tensions eased, the administration withdrew Section 144, finally allowing the resumption of worship and festivities at the historic temple.

Thakurgaon Deputy Commissioner Ishrat Farzana said the restrictions were lifted after both parties reached an agreement with the administration's facilitation.

"We hope this Puja marks the beginning of lasting understanding and peace between the groups."

Preparations are now in full swing. Idol makers are busy crafting the goddess's image, and volunteers are decorating the mandap with lights and traditional artwork.

Local resident Mohen said they had to worship in other temples for nearly 16 years. "It was a deep pain for us. Finally, we have the opportunity to organise Puja in our own temple."

Krishna Roy, a local youth, shared his excitement: "I'm almost 21 now. The last time Durga Puja was held here, I was too young to remember. Since then, I've only seen the temple locked and heard stories from my father about the grand celebrations."

"I always wished to see it with my own eyes — and now that dream is coming true," he added.

Apu Sarkar, a current servant at the temple, said the incident in 2009 left a deep wound in their hearts. He said that the death of Phul Babu created a sorrowful atmosphere, and the temple remained closed ever since.

"Now, after all these years, we are organising the Puja with full dedication. We're not leaving any gaps — this will be a grand celebration," he added.

Thakurgaon Police Superintendent Sheikh Zahidul Islam said, after a long wait, Durga Puja at the Rasik Roy Jiu Temple is returning with joy and harmony.

He hoped that this festival, made possible through cooperation and compromise, would further strengthen the bonds of peace in the community.