Now Reading: West Bengal revokes Banga Bibhushan from Ananta Maharaj
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West Bengal revokes Banga Bibhushan from Ananta Maharaj
The West Bengal government withdrew the Banga Bibhushan, the state's highest civilian award, from BJP Rajya Sabha MP Nagendra Roy, known as Ananta Maharaj, on Thursday. The decision came after his remarks…
The Story in Brief
The West Bengal government withdrew the Banga Bibhushan, the state's highest civilian award, from BJP Rajya Sabha MP Nagendra Roy, known as Ananta Maharaj, on Thursday. The decision came after his remarks calling Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose a 'war criminal' and questioning the Azad Hind Fauj's role sparked widespread outrage.
The award had been conferred on Roy by former chief minister Mamata Banerjee in February 2026 for his work in the Rajbanshi community. The state's information and cultural affairs department issued an order annulling the honour with immediate effect.
The Indian Opinion
This withdrawal feeds two predictable narratives: ruling party score-settling and righteous defence of Netaji's legacy. But both are incomplete. The remarks were indeed provocative, yet the haste, within 24 hours of a police directive, hints at political expediency. The real test is consistency. Will the government revoke awards from others who make comparable statements, including allies? Or will this remain a one-off aimed at a BJP rival?
Sources (2): economictimes.indiatimes.com, indiatvnews.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above.
