---
title: "Bengal Withdraws Award Over MP's Derogatory Remarks on Netaji Bose"
url: https://projectchintan.com/article/west-bengal-mp-derogatory-remarks-netaji-award-withdrawal-b1ny6
publisher: Project Chintan
author: Project Chintan Newsroom
section: Politics
published: 2026-08-14T08:30:19.790Z
modified: 2026-08-14T10:30:03.600Z
language: en-IN
---

# Bengal Withdraws Award Over MP's Derogatory Remarks on Netaji Bose

West Bengal's government withdrew a civilian honor from MP Nagendra Roy after his controversial remarks labeling Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose a "war criminal". The incident sparked widespread protests and calls for action against the BJP MP.

## Key takeaways

- West Bengal government has withdrawn the Banga Bibhusan award from Rajya Sabha MP Nagendra Roy.
- The decision follows Roy's remarks labeling Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose a "war criminal".
- The controversy has led to protests, an FIR against the MP, and police action.
- The Chief Minister has ordered the establishment of Netaji-named service centers and displays of his photos in schools.

The West Bengal government has rescinded the Banga Bibhusan award from Rajya Sabha MP Nagendra Roy, also known as Ananta Maharaj. This action follows a significant political controversy ignited by remarks the Member of Parliament made concerning Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

Roy, who was nominated to the Rajya Sabha in July 2023 with support from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs, had publicly referred to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose as a "war criminal." He also reportedly questioned Bose's leadership and the role of the Azad Hind Fauj in India's independence movement. These statements, made at a public gathering, have circulated widely and prompted demands for action from Netaji loyalists and political groups.

## What Happened

The controversy intensified after Roy's remarks went viral. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose is a highly revered figure in Bengal, and any perceived disrespect has historically drawn strong public and political opposition. Leaders from various parties, including former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, have organized protests in Kolkata to condemn the statements and accuse BJP leaders of insulting Netaji. The All India Forward Bloc, a political party founded by Netaji, has also voiced objections.

In response to the growing uproar, the West Bengal police have initiated legal proceedings. An First Information Report (FIR) has been filed against Nagendra Roy. Additionally, arrests have been made in connection with social media posts deemed to be against Netaji. The Chief Minister has directed the establishment of public service centers named after Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose in every Assembly constituency and has mandated the display of Netaji's photographs in all state schools.

## Background

Nagendra Roy is associated with the Greater Cooch Behar Movement, which advocates for a separate state from territories in Cooch Behar and parts of Dooars and lower Assam. Roy, a prominent figure from the Rajbangshi community, claims the title of 'king maharaj' and has considerable influence within the community. Both the BJP and the Trinamool Congress have sought to engage with Roy, recognizing his community support. The BJP selected Roy as their nominee for the Rajya Sabha after the 2021 West Bengal Assembly polls.

## Key Facts

- West Bengal government withdrew the Banga Bibhusan honor from Rajya Sabha MP Nagendra Roy (Ananta Maharaj) on August 13.
- Roy made remarks referring to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose as a "war criminal" and questioning his leadership.
- Roy was elected to the Rajya Sabha in July 2023 with support from BJP MLAs.
- Roy is a leader from Cooch Behar and associated with the Greater Cooch Behar Movement.
- The West Bengal police have filed an FIR against Nagendra Roy and made arrests for social media posts against Netaji.
- Chief Minister has ordered the creation of 'seva kendras' named after Netaji and the display of his photographs in schools.

The controversy has extended beyond Roy's remarks, with reports of a statue of Netaji being vandalized in Kolkata on August 13, the same day the Banga Bibhusan award was withdrawn. A street in Rampurhat was also reportedly targeted a few days prior.

---
Canonical: https://projectchintan.com/article/west-bengal-mp-derogatory-remarks-netaji-award-withdrawal-b1ny6
Reported from: Multiple Sources