A symbolic shradh ceremony was conducted at the Telkol Ghat, on the banks of the Hooghly on Saturday, to protest against the felling or “killing” of over a hundred trees in the Indian Botanic Garden a few weeks ago. The ceremony was organised by the Ganatantrik Nagarik Samiti, a non-governmental organisation. Several people gathered at the ghat to watch this unique ceremony. Environmentalist Subhas Dutta, who is also the secretary of the organisation, said: “We want to send a message to the people.” The ceremony was conducted in accordance with Hindu, Christian and Islamic rituals.Reverend Subhas Adhikari, father of a city church, read out a prayer from the Bible for the trees.“Usually we arrange this ceremony for human beings. But we must pray for the peace of their (trees) souls as they help us survive ,” he said.According to Dutta, Telkol Ghat was selected for the ceremony as the state government pays no attention to its maintenance. “At present, the ghat is in a much better condition due to the efforts of Naga Baba, a local sadhu,” he added.A Division Bench of the Calcutta High Court, meanwhile, has directed an inquiry panel to submit a report on the felling of the trees within seven days.
