Bengal strips BJP MP Ananta Maharaj of state honour over remarks 'insulting' Netaji

Bengal govt strips BJP MP Ananta Maharaj of Banga Bibhushan award over 'insulting' remarks against Netaji TOI News Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Aug 13, 2026, 17:49 IST Comments Share AA Text Size Small Medium Large The award had been conferred on Ananta Maharaj in February for his contribution to the Rajbanshi community and promotion of its language and culture. NEW DELHI: The West Bengal government on Thursday withdrew the Banga Bibhushan award from BJP Rajya Sabha member Ananta Maharaj over his alleged derogatory comment against Netaji.Banga Bibhushan is one of West Bengal’s highest civilian honours, awarded by the state government to eminent personalities for outstanding contributions in fields such as art, culture, literature, social service and other areas. Ananta Maharaj was conferred the Banga Bibhushan on February 21, 2026, by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at a state government programme in Kolkata marking International Mother Language Day; which has now been revoked.The controversy erupted after BJP Rajya Sabha MP Nagendra Roy, alias Ananta Maharaj, questioned Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's role in forming and leading the Azad Hind Fauj. Speaking at a meeting in Dinhata on July 19, Roy asked, “Did Netaji have the capacity to organise and form the Azad Hind Fauj?” He then claimed that “they were all British soldiers” and alleged that “the Indian National Army (INA) was misused.”Roy also claimed that the Azad Hind Fauj originated from British-Indian troops who had been handed over by Germany. His remarks triggered a backlash in West Bengal, with political leaders and Rajbanshi organisations condemning the comments and demanding action against the BJP MP. Prominent Rajbanshi figures issued a joint statement condemning the remarks as false, insulting and damaging to social harmony. Forward Bloc, a party founded by Netaji, also lodged police complaints and demanded the immediate revocation of his Rajya Sabha membership. The controversy also drew criticism from within the BJP, with veteran party leader Tathagata Roy urging the central leadership to intervene.The remarks have since escalated into a wider political row, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accusing the BJP of insulting Netaji and West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari warning that anyone making derogatory remarks about the freedom fighter would face action under the law. The TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most."