Monk sends defamation notice to Mamata Banerjee, Bharat Sevashram Sangha distances from his statements

Mamata Banerjee

The Bharat Sevashram Sangha (BSS), a religious organisation, has distanced itself from the remarks made by Swami Pradiptananda, the head of its Beldanga unit, against West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee.

Pradiptananda, also known as Kartik Maharaj, sent a notice of defamation to the chief minister and also staged a protest in Behrampore after she called him "BJP stooge" during a poll rally.

Swami Biswatmananda, principal secretary of BSS headquarters, told the Times of India, "The order respects Banerjee for the work she does for the poor." Pradiptananda's statements were made in his personal capacity and were "not endorsed" by BSS.

"This should not have been said. It is unfortunate. No permission was sought from us (BSS headquarters). We will inquire into it," he said.

Speaking to media, Pradiptananda said, "In my legal notice, I stated that the CM's false accusations have caused reactions among monks and devotees. (In the notice, I asked her to) provide proof for the allegations she made. Otherwise, she should issue an unconditional apology." He claimed Banerjee's comments were highly libellous and demanded a reply within four days, failing which he would take legal action.

During his protest, the monk said, "All parties have cordial relations with me. Even TMC leaders have come to meet me. So did Congress and BJP leaders. In Beldanga, a section of people considers me to be their guardian. There is no politics in it."

He criticised Banerjee for not addressing a communally divisive statement made by her party MLA Humayun Kabir. "I have the right to protect my religion," he said.

The chief minister later clarified that she was addressing "lies" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speeches. "I am not against Ramakrishna Mission. Why should I be against an institution and why should I even think of disrespecting an order? I had gone to see the President Maharaj a few days back when he was unwell. That is not the issue. I have only spoken against one or two people."

The chief minister had also accused some Ramakrishna Mission members of working for the BJP.

(With agency inputs)