Bengal revokes BJP MP Anant Maharaj’s Banga Bibhushan after Netaji remarks
The decision came a day after CM Suvendu Adhikari warned of strict action against those making derogatory comments against the iconic freedom fighter
In a controversial decision, the West Bengal government withdrew the Banga Bibhushan award from Anant Maharaj, a BJP Rajya Sabha MP. The Banga Bibhushan, the state's highest civilian award, was conferred upon Anant Maharaj five months ago by the previous Mamata Banerjee government. Maharaj, a Rajbanshi leader from north Bengal, made inflammatory remarks about Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, calling him a "war criminal" during a public meeting in Siliguri on August 9.
The government's decision to revoke the award came after Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari vowed strict action against derogatory comments against the freedom fighter and ordered police to register cases and arrest the accused. The state government deemed retaining the award inconsistent with its dignity, prestige, and purpose. A government order stated, "The continued retention of the Banga Bibhushan by Anant Maharaj is inconsistent with the dignity, prestige and purpose of the honour."
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