West Bengal Government Ends Religious Allowances for Imams and Priests, Prioritises Education
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari says public funds should focus on education and welfare as the cabinet approves women-centric schemes and free bus travel across the state.
New Delhi | May 19, 2026 The West Bengal government has taken a major policy decision by discontinuing religion-based financial allowances previously granted to imams and priests across the state. The move was announced after the state cabinet approved the proposal during its second cabinet meeting.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated that public funds should be focused on essential sectors such as education, infrastructure, and welfare rather than religious stipends. According to the Chief Minister, the government aims to ensure that taxpayer money is directed toward areas that can generate long-term social and economic benefits for citizens.
The decision marks a significant shift in the state’s welfare policy and is expected to spark political debate due to the sensitive nature of religion-linked funding. For years, allowances for imams and certain religious functionaries had remained a contentious issue, with critics arguing that government resources should not be allocated on religious grounds.
In addition to ending religious allowances, the cabinet approved new financial assistance schemes for women and statewide free bus travel, aimed at improving accessibility and easing financial burdens on citizens. The latest move is expected to draw reactions from political parties, religious groups, and civil society in the coming days.
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