New Delhi (Agency): West Bengal’s Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, shared her views on the recent actions of Governor CV Ananda Bose. She believes that if the Governor wishes to undertake responsibilities like a Chief Minister (CM), he should first form a political party, run in the elections, and secure a win.
Mamata Banerjee expressed her concerns, stating, “The Constitution has laid down the role of a governor.” She remarked during her administrative tour in Jhargram district, “While talking to students, he is asking them about corruption and riots. Is this a governor’s duty?” It was in response to Bose’s program called ‘Amne Samne’ held at Raj Bhavan, where he interacts with students, discussing various issues.
Governor Bose, in an earlier statement, mentioned his actions resemble those of a Chief Minister. Reacting to this, Banerjee pointed out, “The governor says he is doing what a CM does. If this is the case, then he should set up a party and win an election.” She went on to suggest that Bose could choose to run under a BJP ticket and take actions as he sees fit if he succeeds. However, she added, “He won’t win as BJP will not be around for too long.”
Banerjee emphasized that the Governor’s role has specific boundaries, implying that he should not overstep. She mentioned Bose’s recent initiative, where he introduced an ‘anti-corruption cell’ at the Raj Bhavan. Although the Governor asserted that this initiative would help the common public direct their complaints to the right authorities and would not “infringe on others’ turf”, Banerjee has reservations about such actions.
Another point of contention raised by the Chief Minister was the Governor’s decision to appoint a non-academic individual as the vice-chancellor of a state university. She stated, “The governor’s post is a constitutional one and there are constitutional limitations to it.” Bose had chosen an ex-IPS officer from Kerala as the vice-chancellor for Aliah University. Banerjee voiced her concerns, noting that such an appointment doesn’t align with the usual norms.
The Chief Minister firmly believes in the importance of adhering to constitutional roles and limitations. She ended her remarks by suggesting that the Governor should approve the Bill from the Assembly that permits the appointment of the chief minister as the Chancellor of state-managed universities.
Mamata Banerjee’s comments underline the significance of understanding and respecting the boundaries set by the Constitution for different roles within the state’s administration. She urges Governor Bose to recognize and adhere to these limitations.
