Sacred Trust Shattered: Civic Volunteers Arrested for Stealing Gold from Durga Idol in Malda
Malda, West Bengal — In a shocking incident that has sent ripples of disbelief through the community, two civic volunteers tasked with providing security during Durga Puja celebrations have been arrested for allegedly stealing gold ornaments from the Goddess Durga idol itself. The theft, which occurred during the festive season at a pandal in Gazole, Malda, has raised serious questions about security protocols and the abuse of positions of trust. The Audacious Crime The incident took place at the Eklakhi Gandhimor Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in Gazole during the Ashtami celebrations—one of the most auspicious days of the festival. What makes this case particularly egregious is that the accused were not outsiders or opportunistic thieves, but civic volunteers specifically deployed to ensure the safety and security of the puja venue and its devotees. According to reports, the theft occurred during the late night hours when the festive crowds had thinned. The accused allegedly ...