A statue of freedom fighter and national icon Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was allegedly vandalised in New Alipore’s Ward 81 in south Kolkata, triggering outrage among local residents and political parties. The incident came to light on Thursday morning when residents noticed that the statue, located near a three-way junction along the route towards Tollygunge, had suffered damage. The right arm of the statue was found broken.
Police Begin Investigation
The circumstances surrounding the damage remain unclear. Police have initiated an investigation to determine when and how the statue was damaged and to identify those responsible.
Incident Comes Amid Netaji Controversy
The incident has assumed significance amid a recent controversy over alleged derogatory remarks about Netaji made by BJP Rajya Sabha MP Nagen Roy, popularly known as Ananta Maharaj, and some of his supporters. However, there is currently no evidence establishing any connection between those remarks and the vandalism.
BJP Demands Action Against Those Responsible
The BJP has alleged that unidentified miscreants damaged the statue deliberately. Tarak Bandyopadhyay, BJP South Kolkata secretary, condemned the incident and called for an immediate investigation.
“The breaking of Netaji’s right arm under the cover of darkness is highly significant. I demand an immediate investigation to identify those responsible and strict legal action against the accused,” he said.
TMC Condemns Vandalism
The Trinamool Congress also condemned the incident. The party criticised what it described as a series of developments involving disrespect towards Netaji and said the vandalism of a statue of a revered national figure was unacceptable.
Activist Calls for Impartial Probe
Social activist Singha Binoy also condemned the alleged vandalism in a social media post, describing Netaji as a symbol of India’s freedom struggle, courage and patriotism. He said political differences were an integral part of democracy but should not result in disrespect towards national icons or damage to public property.
Calling for an impartial investigation, Binoy said the administration should establish the facts and identify those responsible. If the damage is found to have been deliberate, appropriate legal action should follow, he said.
Appeal Against Political or Communal Tensions
At the same time, he cautioned against using the incident to fuel political tensions or communal divisions. According to him, Netaji’s legacy transcends political parties, ideologies and communities, and his statues and memorials should be protected as part of Bengal’s historical heritage.
Police are now examining the circumstances of the vandalism and are expected to review available CCTV footage and other evidence to establish the sequence of events.
