Bengal Governor Quits Before Polls
By KUNAL CHATTERJEE
West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose has resigned from his post after serving for over three years, just ahead of the state's assembly elections. The sudden move has sparked political debates, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee voicing strong concerns.
Bose, appointed on November 17, 2022, confirmed his resignation to PTI, saying simply, "I have been the Governor of Bengal for three-and-a-half years; it’s enough for me." He offered no further details on the reasons, leaving many wondering about behind-the-scenes pressures. The timing feels tense, as West Bengal gears up for polls, and Bose's tenure was marked by public clashes with the state government over issues like law and order.
It has come to light that Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi will take additional charge. This reshuffle comes amid rumors of a larger central government overhaul of governors in opposition-ruled states.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wasted no time reacting on X (formerly Twitter), posting that she was "shocked and deeply concerned" by the news. She alleged possible interference from the Centre, stating, "The reasons behind his resignation are not known to me at this moment. However, given the prevailing circumstances, I would not be surprised if the Governor has been subjected to some pressure from the Union Home Minister to serve certain political interests on the eve of the forthcoming state assembly elections".
Banerjee also criticised the lack of consultation, noting Union Home Minister Amit Shah informed her of Ravi's appointment without following conventions. "He never consulted with me as per the established convention in this regard," she added, calling it an attack on federal principles.
Bose's time in office wasn't smooth. He often locked horns with Banerjee's Trinamool Congress government, even vowing in a video message to avoid sharing stages with her and to uphold constitutional duties strictly. Past controversies, including allegations of misconduct at Raj Bhavan, had already strained ties.
As President Droupadi Murmu plans a visit to Bengal on March 6-7, the resignation adds fuel to opposition claims of central overreach. For now, Bose has returned to Delhi, and the state watches closely as elections loom. This exit could reshape the poll narrative in a state where governor-CM relations have long been a flashpoint.
