C. V. Ananda Bose resigned from his post on Thursday after serving for about three and a half years, a development that comes just months before the upcoming assembly elections in the state.
Speaking to PTI, Bose confirmed his resignation but did not specify any particular reason for stepping down. He simply stated that he had spent enough time in the Governor’s office. Bose had assumed office as the Governor of West Bengal on November 17, 2022.
His sudden exit has triggered political reactions, especially given the timing ahead of the state’s electoral cycle.
Mamata Banerjee Reacts With Concern
Reacting to the development, Mamata Banerjee said she was “shocked and deeply concerned” by the unexpected resignation.
“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,” she said.
Banerjee also revealed that the Union Home Minister informed her that R. N. Ravi would be appointed as the new Governor of West Bengal.
Centre Accused Of Ignoring Convention
The Chief Minister criticised the Centre for not consulting her before announcing the appointment, calling it a departure from established constitutional convention.
“He never consulted with me as per the established convention in this regard. Such actions undermine the spirit of the Constitution of India and strike at the very foundation of our federal structure,” Banerjee said.
She added that the Union government should respect the principles of cooperative federalism and avoid unilateral decisions that could erode democratic norms and the dignity of states.
Political Timing Raises Questions
Bose’s resignation comes at a politically sensitive moment as West Bengal prepares for its next assembly elections. The sudden change in the Governor’s office is likely to intensify political debate between the state government and the Centre in the coming weeks.