The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition seeking a direction to the Union government to bring back the ashes of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose from Japan.
The plea was filed by Ashish Roy, described as one of Netaji’s great-grandsons. It stated that Netaji’s ashes are kept at Renkoji Temple in Japan and sought an order for their repatriation to India.
A Bench led by Chief Justice Suryakant heard the matter. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for the petitioner, argued that it would be appropriate for the ashes of a leader who fought for India’s freedom to be brought back to the country.
During the hearing, the Chief Justice asked where the ashes are currently kept. Singhvi said they are at Renkoji Temple and added that several senior Indian leaders visiting Japan usually pay respects there.
The Bench said it bows to Netaji’s sacrifice but questioned whether the family as a whole supported the petition. It noted that family members could approach the court directly if needed, and also referred to a similar plea being dismissed in 2024, before rejecting the present petition as not maintainable.
