KOLKATA — Signaling a firm crackdown on derogatory comments targeting freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari directed state police on Wednesday to take stringent action and arrest offenders, warning that political rank or official standing will offer no immunity.
Speaking to reporters at the state secretariat, Nabanna, Adhikari emphasized that public figures—including lawmakers and bureaucrats—remain subject to the same legal standards as ordinary citizens.
“I have asked the police to take stringent action against those making derogatory remarks against Netaji on social media,” Adhikari stated, confirming that law enforcement has been instructed to initiate arrests. “I will not name anyone, but the law is equal for MLAs, MPs, leaders of any party, government officials, or police officers.”
The Chief Minister’s directive follows a wave of public backlash sparked by BJP Rajya Sabha MP Nagendranath Roy—popularly known as Ananta Maharaj—who recently referred to Netaji as a “war criminal” and questioned the role of the Azad Hind Fauj in India’s independence movement. The comments ignited sharp political pushback across the state.
Adhikari urged individuals who posted disparaging content about the nationalist leader to delete their posts immediately and issue a public apology, though he cautioned that doing so would not guarantee immunity from legal action.
“Deleting the post may not help, as the police will make the final decision independently,” he said.
In addition to enforcing law enforcement measures, the Chief Minister announced that all state MLAs will be asked to establish public assistance hubs named ‘Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Seva Kendra’ within their constituencies to render civic services to local residents.
