Bengal govt strips BJP MP Ananta Maharaj of Banga Bibhushan award over 'insulting' remarks against Netaji

TOI News Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Aug 13, 2026, 17:49 IST

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The award had been conferred on Ananta Maharaj in February for his contribution to the Rajbanshi community and promotion of its language and culture.

NEW DELHI: The West Bengal government on Thursday withdrew the Banga Bibhushan award from BJP Rajya Sabha member Ananta Maharaj over his alleged derogatory comment against Netaji.Mamata Banerjee at a state government programme in Kolkata marking International Mother Language Day; which has now been revoked.

His remarks triggered a backlash in West Bengal, with political leaders and Rajbanshi organisations condemning the comments and demanding action against the BJP MP. Prominent Rajbanshi figures issued a joint statement condemning the remarks as false, insulting and damaging to social harmony. Forward Bloc, a party founded by Netaji, also lodged police complaints and demanded the immediate revocation of his Rajya Sabha membership.

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