Durga Idol's Face Stolen In Bengal, Accused Tied To Pole And Thrashed

A man was bound to a pole and beaten after stolen Durga idol faces were allegedly discovered in his shop in West Bengal's Asansol.

The faces of two Durga idols were reportedly stolen from sculptor Bapi Pal's workshop and later found in the nearby workshop belonging to Pritam Thakur.

Thakur, who hails from Bihar, was subsequently tied to an electric pole and physically assaulted before law enforcement arrived at the scene and placed him under arrest.

Bapi Pal stated that his idol molds are distinctive and exclusive, with no one else having permission to use them.

"This theft was motivated by jealousy and ill intent. One of these idols was scheduled to be delivered to a Puja committee tomorrow," he explained.

Authorities are questioning the suspect to ascertain whether the theft was motivated by professional competition, personal animosity, or if it forms part of a broader plot.

Durga Puja represents Bengal's most significant festival. This year, the celebrations will commence with the beginning of Devi Paksha on Mahalaya, September 21, while the main festivities will occur from September 28 (Mahasasthi) through October 2 (Maha Dasahmi).