Bengal declares Ram Navami as public holiday, BJP slams move calling it 'too late'

In its response, the Bharatiya Janata Party said the move came "too late", claiming Mamata Banerjee wants to "redeem her anti-Hindu image".

Besides Durga Puja, Kali Puja and Saraswati Puja - the major festivals in West Bengal -Ram Navami has found its place in the official holiday list.

The state witnessed incidents of violence during Ram Navami processions in the last few years, sparking political blame games.

The move comes before the announcement of the national elections, which is expected to be a direct contest between the BJP and Banerjee's Trinamool Congress in West Bengal.

Sharing a Bengal government notification designating Ram Navami as a public holiday, the BJP's IT cell chief Amit Malviya alleged that chants of "Jai Shree Ram" used to enrage Banerjee.

"Mamata Banerjee, who would turn blue with rage, every time she heard 'Jai Shree Ram', has designated Ram Navami (17th Apr) as public holiday, in West Bengal. She has done this to redeem her anti-Hindu image. Too late though," quipped Malviya.

He added: "More importantly, she needs to ensure no stones are pelted on Ram Navami processions. Will she?"