KOLKATA: The Election Commission of India has strongly rebuked claims surrounding Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s alleged grandson, labeling them as deliberately misleading ahead of the West Bengal polls. In a firm statement, the EC clarified that no official verification supports the assertion that Chandra Kumar Bose is the direct descendant of the iconic freedom fighter.
The controversy erupted when Chandra Kumar Bose, who has long claimed lineage from Netaji, entered the political fray. Political opponents quickly seized on the narrative, questioning his credentials to amplify his voice. However, the EC intervened decisively, emphasizing that such unverified personal claims have no bearing on electoral processes.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose remains a towering figure in India’s independence struggle, revered across the nation for his unwavering patriotism and leadership of the Indian National Army. His legacy continues to inspire millions, making any distortion of his family history a sensitive issue.
Election officials in West Bengal underscored the importance of factual discourse during campaigns. ‘We urge all parties to stick to policy issues and avoid personal misinformation,’ a senior EC representative stated. This directive comes at a critical juncture as the state gears up for high-stakes elections.
The Bose family itself has been divided over these claims for years. While some members embrace Chandra Kumar, others dismiss him outright. Legal battles and public debates have raged, but the EC’s intervention marks a clear line: electoral platforms are not for settling family disputes.
As campaigning intensifies, this episode highlights the pitfalls of invoking historical icons in modern politics. Voters are reminded to focus on development, governance, and real issues affecting their lives. The EC’s stance reinforces democratic integrity, ensuring that legends like Netaji are honored through truth, not fabrication.