Kolkata: CM Suvendu Adhikari on Wednesday said anyone denigrating Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose — whether MP, MLA or govt official — would face strict action. Speaking at a news conference, he directed police to identify social media posts, including likes and comments, spreading disrespect about Netaji and take action under relevant cyber laws and BNS.The comments come amid controversy surrounding remarks by BJP Rajya Sabha member from Cooch Behar, Nagendra Roy, alias Ananta Maharaj. The MP had recently questioned Netaji’s role in the freedom struggle and capabilities of Azad Hind Fauj.He stirred fresh controversy on Sunday claiming that Azad Hind Fauj had originated from British-Indian troops handed over by Germany and claiming Netaji had “misused” INA.His remarks led to a public backlash and widespread demands for his removal. Bengal finance minister Swapan Dasgupta said, “There’s a lunatic person who claims to be from BJP, who has been saying all sorts of peculiar things. The man’s knowledge of history is worse than my knowledge of nuclear physics.”The CM said: “Certain individuals are continuously making derogatory remarks about Netaji, a world-revered true patriot and a principal architect of India’s Independence. MLAs from north Bengal have demanded strict action against those who have shown the audacity to spread (such) derogatory remarks, falsehoods and malicious propaganda against Netaji.”“The state govt supports their demand. I am instructing the cyber cell and the police to take strict action. We have zero tolerance. Wherever complaints are filed, cases will be registered under BNS. Police are also directed to make arrests under relevant sections of the law. We will also connect with Facebook and other social media platforms so that they also take appropriate action,” he added.On being asked if action would be taken against Ananta Maharaj, Adhikari said, “Law is equal for everyone, be it a minister, MP, MLA or govt official. Police will act according to BNS. Police will independently decide on the course of action. We will not interfere.”“As for those who have shown this audacity, I would request them — or rather, not request, but advise them — that this audacity they have displayed is unacceptable and the Bengal govt and police are not taking it lightly. Post an apology immediately. Delete your posts right now. But (don’t think) that you will be spared just because you delete your posts,” Adhikari said.The CM added that Netaji’s picture will be made compulsory in every govt office and school and the name of the MLA seva kendra will be dedicated to Netaji. “Officials from I&CA met Netaji’s family and took approval of the photo. Notification will be issued shortly making his photo mandatory at govt offices and schools. The photos will be circulated in a few days,” he said.
