After Chandan Sen, Biplab Banerjee, ‘Binodini Opera’ fame Sudipta Chakraborty declares to return her ‘Special Film Award’ in solidarity to the doctors’ protest

After Chandan Sen and Biplab Banerjee, National Award winning Bengali actress Sudipta Chakraborty made her decision to return her ‘Special Film Award’ in the wake of protests over RG Kar rape-murder incident. The popular actress, thespian and coach of Tollywood announced her decision on social media after sending an email to the concerned authority.
Sudipta wrote, “With a very heavy heart and pained mind, I'm writing this email to you to please accept my wish to return the Special Film Award (বিশেষ চলচ্চিত্র পুরস্কার) given to me for my contribution in cinema (চলচ্চিত্রে আসামান্য অবদান) on 24th July, 2013, by the Government of West Bengal, Information and Culture Dept.Sir, I've been working in the film/tv industry since last 30 odd years. I've been fortunate enough to receive the National Film Award (জাতীয় চলচ্চিত্র পুরস্কার) for my work in 2000 too from the then hon'ble President Of India. But back home, being recognised for my work by our hon'ble State Government was a matter of immense pride. The Certificate given by you has been hanging on my wall till yesterday to reinstate the joy and pride I felt for it. But, in the wake of the current status of our State and the related comments made on 1st September, by one of our respected MLAs Mr Kanchan Mullick, I hereby wish to return my certificate and the honour bestowed upon me and continue my demand for Justice, both legal and social, standing on the road. I had been paid an amount of Rs 25000/ (Rupees twenty five thousand) too with the certificate, if I remember correctly. Kindly provide me the means by which I can return the amount to your esteemed Department. Looking forward to a positive response,”
Sudipta previously did not make her decision public. However, with the encouragement of colleague and fellow actress Swastika Mukherjee, she chose to declare her decision on the public forum. The ‘Binodini Opera’ famed artist wrote, “I did not compromise. I will not compromise. I thought the government award was given for my merit. Yesterday night, when the honorable MLA demanded to return the prize if he took to the streets, I took the decision. A little late in getting the email address and sending the letter.” Sudipta added, “I'll keep standing on the road.. Demanding Justice.. Legal and Social....both.”
A few days ago, actor-politician and an MLA of Trinamool Congress Kanchan Mallick urged the protestors to return the award they had been bestowed by the government. After that statement, veteran thespian Chandan Sen and actor-director Biplab Banerjee have declared to return their prestigious awards to the state government. Sudipta Chakraborty is the third artist to follow suit.