The West Bengal state government has officially revoked the Banga Bibhushan award previously conferred upon BJP Rajya Sabha MP Ananta Maharaj. The decision follows a growing political controversy concerning alleged disrespectful remarks made about freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. On Thursday, the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs issued a formal notification canceling the state's highest civilian honor awarded to him.
Ananta Maharaj had originally received the prestigious Banga Bibhushan honor from former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during a Language Day event organized at Amar Ekushey Udyan in Deshapriya Park. The honor was granted prior to the 2026 Assembly elections in recognition of his social and cultural influence in North Bengal. However, recent controversial statements regarding Netaji led to widespread public outrage and political backlash across the state.
Following administrative review and public warnings regarding zero tolerance for derogatory comments about national icons, the state government moved to rescind the honor. The official cancellation order underscores the administration's stance against remarks deemed insulting to historical figures. Officials confirmed that the notification revoking the award takes immediate effect upon issuance.