Kolkata, 13 August (H.S.): BJP MP Nagendra Ray, popularly known as Ananta Maharaj, has faced a major setback following his controversial remarks about Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, with the West Bengal government withdrawing the prestigious ‘Banga Bibhushan’ honour conferred on him.

An official notification issued by Nabanna on Thursday stated that the honour had been withdrawn with immediate effect. It also made it clear that Ananta Maharaj would no longer be entitled to identify himself as a recipient of the Banga Bibhushan. The government has further directed that the designation ‘Banga Bibhushan’ be removed from all official records associated with his name.

The action comes amid a growing political controversy over Ananta Maharaj’s recent remarks on Netaji. He had questioned Netaji’s role in India’s freedom struggle, claiming that he had made no contribution to the country’s independence. He had also accused Netaji of misusing the Indian National Army (INA).

The remarks triggered strong reactions across West Bengal and came just a day after Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari, during a press conference at the state secretariat on Wednesday, made it clear that no one would be spared for making objectionable remarks about Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

According to the notification issued by Nabanna, Ananta Maharaj had been conferred the Banga Bibhushan on February 21, 2026, in recognition of his contribution to the state and its people. At the time, Mamata Banerjee was the Chief Minister of West Bengal.

However, the government said that certain matters that subsequently came to its notice were considered serious and raised questions over whether Ananta Maharaj's continued possession of the honour was compatible with the dignity and stature associated with the Banga Bibhushan.

After considering the relevant facts and circumstances, the government concluded that allowing Ananta Maharaj to retain the honour was not consistent with the dignity and prestige of the award. The Banga Bibhushan was therefore withdrawn with immediate effect.

The decision assumes significance as it came within 24 hours of Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari's assertion that the government would adopt a strict approach towards any attempt to insult or disparage Netaji. He had also stressed that political affiliation would not determine action and that the law would apply equally to everyone.

Following the Chief Minister's directive, the police and cyber cell began identifying objectionable posts and comments concerning Netaji on social media platforms. On Thursday, a youth was also reportedly arrested in Uttar Dinajpur for allegedly posting objectionable content about Netaji.

State minister Agnimitra Pal also strongly criticised Ananta Maharaj's remarks. She said it was deeply unfortunate if he believed that insulting Netaji would help him win the support of the people of Bengal.

“Insulting Netaji is an insult to Bengalis. We will not tolerate it,” Pal said, while adding that the issue should not be turned into a political controversy.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh