The Cooch Behar statue controversy in West Bengal has become a flashpoint in state politics. The unveiling of a statue of Maharaja Jagaddipendra Narayan Bhup Bahadur, the last king of the erstwhile princely state of Cooch Behar, coincided with his 111th birth anniversary. Instead of being a unifying cultural event, the ceremony exposed a simmering feud between Trinamool Congress leaders Udayan Guha and Rabindranath Ghosh.
2. Cooch Behar Statue Controversy: The Statue Unveiling
- The statue was installed at Amtala, on the bank of Sagar Dighi, in front of the North Bengal Development Department’s office.
- It was unveiled by Rabindranath Ghosh, chairman of Cooch Behar municipality.
- The absence of Udayan Guha, minister of North Bengal Development, raised eyebrows.
- The event was attended by district officials, Trinamool leaders, and members of the Rajbanshi Development Board.
3. The Political Feud
- Rabindranath Ghosh: A veteran Trinamool leader, spearheaded the statue project.
- Udayan Guha: Minister of North Bengal Development, skipped the event citing improper invitation.
- Guha alleged that only a WhatsApp message was sent, not an official letter.
- The feud reflects deeper factionalism within Trinamool Congress in Cooch Behar.
4. Heritage Politics in Cooch Behar
- Cooch Behar is known for its royal legacy, including palaces and temples.
- Statues of rulers like Bishwa Singha are also planned.
- The initiative aims to preserve heritage but has become politicized.
- Rajbanshi organizations demanded respect for the memory of the last ruler.
5. Public Reaction
- Rajbanshi groups expressed resentment at earlier objections to the statue.
- Protests were held demanding installation at the designated location.
- The chief minister Mamata Banerjee intervened to resolve disputes.
- Citizens see the feud as undermining heritage preservation.
6. Government External Links for Assistance
- Government of West Bengal: https://wb.gov.in
- Ministry of Culture, Government of India: https://indiaculture.gov.in
- Archaeological Survey of India (ASI): https://asi.nic.in
- Election Commission of India: https://eci.gov.in
7. Historical Context of Royal Legacy
- Maharaja Jagaddipendra Narayan Bhup Bahadur was the last king before Cooch Behar merged with India.
- The princely state had strong cultural and political influence in Bengal.
- The Rajbanshi community continues to celebrate royal anniversaries.
- Statues serve as symbols of identity and pride.
8. Governance Challenges
The controversy reflects:
- Factionalism within ruling parties.
- Politicization of heritage projects.
- Weak communication between leaders.
- Public distrust in governance.
9. Global Comparisons
Heritage controversies occur worldwide:
- UK: Debates over colonial statues.
- USA: Conflicts over Confederate monuments.
- South Africa: Removal of apartheid‑era statues.
India’s challenge lies in balancing heritage preservation with political interests.
10. Governance Lessons
The Cooch Behar statue controversy teaches:
- Need for transparent heritage policies.
- Community involvement in decisions.
- Avoidance of factional politics in cultural projects.
- Respect for historical figures across party lines.
11. Future Outlook – Heritage and Politics
India must move towards:
- Depoliticized heritage preservation.
- Digital archives to complement statues.
- Community heritage boards for inclusive decision‑making.
- Educational programs to promote awareness of royal legacies.
12. Conclusion
The Cooch Behar statue controversy in West Bengal is more than a local feud. It reflects the intersection of heritage, identity, and politics. While the statue of Maharaja Jagaddipendra Narayan Bhup Bahadur should have been a unifying symbol, it instead exposed divisions within Trinamool Congress. If governance lessons are learned, Bengal can ensure that heritage projects strengthen unity rather than deepen political rifts.
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