‘NSS headquarters is not anyone’s ancestral property’: Ananda Bose on Nair Service Society
New Delhi: A controversy has erupted within the Nair Service Society (NSS) after West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose alleged that he was denied the chance to pay floral tributes at the Mannam Samadhi in Perunna, Changanassery, the organisation’s headquarters.
Speaking at the inauguration of Mannam Jayanti celebrations organised by the Delhi NSS Karayogam, the Governor said he was forced to wait for permission from a gatekeeper to enter the samadhi—a situation he described as “deeply disrespectful and unacceptable.”
“I am not going to Perunna to meet any gatekeeper or individual. I went there to pay respects to Mannathu Padmanabhan,” Ananda Bose said. He added that everyone must be respected and that the NSS headquarters should not be treated as the private property of any individual.
The Governor emphasised that paying floral tributes at Mannathu Padmanabhan’s samadhi is not the privilege of a select group, but a fundamental right of every member of the Nair community. “The younger generation and ordinary members should be free to offer their respects without restrictions,” he stated.
Recalling events prior to assuming office, Ananda Bose said that NSS General Secretary G Sukumaran Nair was among the first people he informed after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced his appointment. He said he had clearly expressed his wish to visit Mannam Samadhi before taking charge as Governor.
The alleged denial of access has triggered strong reactions within the community, with critics accusing NSS leadership of disrespecting a constitutional authority and violating long-standing community traditions.
Statement from NSS
Nair Service Society (NSS) General Secretary G Sukumaran Nair has rejected allegations made by West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose, saying no such incident as claimed by the Governor had taken place and asserting that Ananda Bose had never been prevented from entering or leaving the Mannam Samadhi.
Responding to the Governor’s remarks, Sukumaran Nair said Ananda Bose had, in fact, visited Perunna and offered floral tributes, contradicting his recent statements. “No incident has occurred in the manner he describes,” Sukumaran Nair said, questioning the intent behind the Governor’s claims.
He alleged that Ananda Bose was making statements with a deliberate agenda, describing them as attempts to create unnecessary controversy and discord among people. “It appears to be a stunt aimed at provoking trouble,” he said.
Referring to comparisons made in public discourse, Sukumaran Nair said those opposed to the NSS were free to express their views but accused the Governor of making irresponsible remarks. He added that several prominent individuals, including actor Mohanlal, had visited Perunna and offered respects without any issue or publicity.