Kolkata | Alleging that "double standards" were prevailing in West Bengal over permissions for religious activities, BJP chief Nitin Nabin on Wednesday claimed that while namaz can be offered freely in the state, court approval is needed to organise pujas or erect pandals.

Speaking to reporters after offering prayers at the Dakshineswar Temple on the outskirts of Kolkata, Nabin said the situation was "unfortunate".

"Here, there is permission to offer namaz, but to perform puja and erect pandals, one has to seek permission from the high court," he claimed.

Nabin said he prayed to Goddess Kali for the happiness, peace and prosperity of the people of the state.

"I offered puja at Dakshineswar and sought the blessings of the goddess for the well-being of the people of the state and for building a 'Viksit Bengal' and 'Sonar Bangla'," he said.