New Delhi, Aug. 13 -- The West Bengal government has withdrawn Banga Bibhushan, a prestigious civilian award in the state, from Nagendra Ray, widely known as Ananta Maharaj. The Information and Cultural Affairs Department issued this order on 13 August.

The Banga Bibhushan was originally conferred on 21 February this year. Former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee awarded it during Bhasha Diwas celebrations.

The government stated that this decision took effect immediately. Ananta Maharaj will no longer represent himself as a recipient. He cannot claim any privileges arising from this conferment now.

Authorities have also directed the deletion of his name from official records. This includes all lists of Banga Bibhushan recipients.

"Upon s...