Kolkata, 13 August (H.S.) : BJP Rajya Sabha MP Ananta Maharaj has sought to defend his controversial remarks about Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, maintaining that he did not insult or defame the freedom fighter and had merely presented what he described as historical facts.

His comments came within 24 hours of Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari issuing a strong warning that those making derogatory remarks about Netaji could face legal action and even arrest.

The controversy surrounding Ananta Maharaj intensified after a complaint was lodged against him over his remarks on Netaji. Amid growing political pressure, the Rajya Sabha MP appeared to soften his tone but refused to withdraw his earlier claims.

Ananta Maharaj had questioned Netaji’s role in forming the Indian National Army, claiming that Netaji did not have the authority to create the force on his own. He alleged that Germany had taken British soldiers captive and subsequently handed them over to Netaji, who, according to him, misused them. He further claimed that Netaji had no role in India’s independence.

Defending his remarks, Ananta Maharaj said he was prepared to face legal consequences if he had committed any wrongdoing, but insisted that he had not said anything defamatory about anyone.

“I have only placed certain historical theories before the public. I was not even born at the time being discussed,” he said.

Reacting to the Chief Minister’s warning, he added that he had neither fabricated facts nor spread false allegations against anyone. According to him, he had merely shared what he claimed was recorded in history books.

“I did not abuse anyone. I only spoke about what is written in history,” Ananta Maharaj said.

On Wednesday, Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari had warned during a press conference at Nabanna that there would be no leniency towards social media posts insulting Netaji. He said legal action could be initiated and arrests could also be made if necessary.

The Chief Minister’s warning has added to the political controversy surrounding Ananta Maharaj’s remarks, with demands growing for action against those making allegedly derogatory statements about Netaji.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh