Kolkata, 24 July (H.S.) : The West Bengal Assembly on Thursday witnessed a heated debate over allegations that a public toilet had been constructed at the ancestral home of revolutionary Rash Behari Bose, with the Opposition accusing the previous Trinamool Congress government of disrespecting the freedom fighter's legacy.

During the discussion on the Tourism Department's budget, BJP MLA Gopal Chattopadhyay from Purbasthali Uttar alleged that the historic residence of the legendary revolutionary had been converted into a public toilet. Calling the development deeply unfortunate, he demanded that the structure be demolished before August 15 and that the site be restored with due dignity.

The legislator urged the government to preserve the historical importance of the property and take strict action against those responsible for the alleged lapse.

Responding to the issue in the House, Tourism Minister Shankar Ghosh said the government had taken the matter seriously and directed the department to initiate immediate action. He informed the Assembly that a detailed report had been sought from the District Magistrate, and appropriate legal action would be taken after examining the findings.

The minister said that if negligence or wrongdoing by any individual or authority is established, those responsible would face action in accordance with the law.

The issue has sparked fresh political debate over the preservation of the legacy of Rash Behari Bose and the protection of historical heritage sites in West Bengal.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh