Congress MP and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi sparked controversy with a social media post commemorating Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s 128th birth anniversary, which mentioned August 18, 1945, as Netaji’s death date—a claim widely disputed.
Criticism from TMC and BJP Leaders
Kunal Ghosh (TMC Leader):
- Statement: “Rahul Gandhi’s post is wrong and unacceptable. The theory regarding the air crash accident of Netaji is not confirmed. He should correct the date mentioned in his post.”
- Ghosh emphasized the need for sensitivity and accuracy in matters relating to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, given the historical ambiguity surrounding his death.
Sukanta Majumdar (Union Minister and BJP Leader):
- Demanded Apology:
- “Rahul Gandhi must apologise within the next 24 hours for disrespecting Netaji by declaring a disputed death date.”
- Majumdar labeled the post as irresponsible and called for followers of Netaji to raise their voices against the statement.
- Statement on X: “Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was India’s first Prime Minister. Any misinformation about him, especially from a leader in a constitutional position, is disrespectful.”
The Controversy Over Netaji’s Death
The date of August 18, 1945, often linked to an air crash in Taipei, has been heavily debated.
- Multiple theories suggest that Netaji survived the crash and lived under an assumed identity.
- Official investigations, including the Mukherjee Commission (1999–2005), failed to conclusively verify the air crash theory.
Public Reaction and Next Steps
The controversy has reignited debates about Netaji’s mysterious death, with political leaders urging Rahul Gandhi to issue a clarification or apology. Followers of Netaji have voiced concerns over the need for respectful and accurate acknowledgment of his legacy.
This incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding Netaji’s legacy and the need for political figures to exercise caution when referencing historically contested events.