Netaji statue 'vandalised' in Kolkata after warning

Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose statue was vandalised just 24 hours after the state's chief minister, Suvendu Adhikari, issued a stern warning against any derogatory remarks or posts on social media targeting the freedom fighter. The right hand of the statue, situated near a three-way crossing in the south Kolkata's New Alipore area, was found damaged.

The police have launched an investigation into the matter, and are examining CCTV footage and other evidence to determine when and how the statue was damaged. It is not yet clear if the damage was intentional. BJP workers at the spot alleged that miscreants were behind the vandalism on Wednesday night. Adhikari had directed the police to take action against those making defamatory statements about Netaji on social media, threatening arrests for anyone who insulted, falsely accused, or defamed the hero.

The incident occurred following BJP MP Ananta Maharaj's controversial remarks about Netaji as a war criminal, leading the West Bengal government to withdraw his Banga Bibhushan award.