Mamata Banerjee raises monthly honorarium for priests, muezzins ahead of EC's poll schedule announcement

2026-03-15 - 10:32

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced a Rs 500 hike in monthly honorariums for priests and muezzins, raising their pay to Rs 2,000. This move, along with the approval of all new applications, was made just before the Election Commission declared poll dates. Banerjee stated the decision recognizes the vital role of religious functionaries in community life.