Kolkata: A fresh political controversy has emerged in West Bengal after the nameplate of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at the Nandan cultural complex in Kolkata was painted over ahead of the upcoming Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF).
The development has attracted considerable attention as the plaque bearing the name of former Chief Minister Jyoti Basu, who laid the foundation stone of Nandan, remains untouched at the premises.
According to reports, the plaque carrying Mamata Banerjee's name was covered with paint, effectively removing its visibility at the cultural complex. The change comes ahead of the 32nd edition of the Kolkata International Film Festival, scheduled to take place from December 16 to 23, 2026.
Mamata Banerjee's name had been displayed at the venue following renovation and beautification work undertaken during the Trinamool Congress government's tenure.
Meanwhile, Jyoti Basu's plaque continues to remain in place. Basu laid the foundation stone of Nandan in 1980, while legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray inaugurated the complex in 1985.
The issue has also triggered political reactions. Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty, who is associated with the organisation of this year's Kolkata International Film Festival, questioned the relevance of retaining Mamata Banerjee's name on the plaque.
His remarks added another dimension to the growing debate surrounding the decision.
The Trinamool Congress has criticised the development, accusing the present administration of targeting the legacy of the previous government.
TMC spokesperson Upasana Chowdhury reportedly described the situation as an example of authoritarian governance and questioned the decision to remove or cover the former Chief Minister's name.
The controversy has further intensified the political exchanges between the BJP and the TMC in West Bengal.
The incident comes at a time when preparations are underway for the 32nd Kolkata International Film Festival, which will be held from December 16 to 23.
The festival's newly unveiled logo has also attracted attention. Designed by filmmaker Sandip Ray, son of Satyajit Ray, the new identity features saffron alongside blue, white and black.
Ireland has been selected as the festival's focus country.
As the cultural centre prepares to host one of Kolkata's major cinematic events, the controversy over the nameplate has brought questions of political legacy, cultural identity and institutional recognition into the spotlight.
