Is the Situation in Bengal Deteriorating? Guv Ananda Bose Criticizes Attack on BJP MP and Legislator

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Governor C.V. Ananda Bose raises concerns about the state of democracy in Bengal.
- The attack on BJP leaders signifies a troubling disconnect between the government and citizens.
- Law enforcement must address the failures in maintaining order.
- Upcoming elections should be conducted impartially by the Election Commission of India.
- Safety of elected representatives is paramount for democratic integrity.
Kolkata, Oct 8 (NationPress) The assault on BJP Lok Sabha member Khagen Murmu and the party’s Chief Whip in West Bengal on Monday indicates a significant gap between the state administration and its citizens, remarked Governor C.V. Ananda Bose during an interview with IANS on Wednesday.
"The situation in Bengal is troubling. There exists a disconnect between the government and the populace," he stated.
Bose highlighted that the attack on Murmu and Ghosh is not merely an affront to the BJP. “A tribal MP was attacked, showcasing that elected representatives are not safe in West Bengal. This raises concerns about the safety of democracy in Bengal,” the Governor emphasized.
Furthermore, he informed that he had briefed President Droupadi Murmu regarding the ongoing situation in West Bengal.
“When law and order is compromised and the offenders remain unpunished, it signifies a failure of the police force. The police are under the jurisdiction of the state government, which bears the constitutional obligation to uphold law and order. Such issues must be resolved by the relevant authorities through lawful and constitutional approaches,” he added.
Bose mentioned that there are existing legal frameworks, court procedures, and Supreme Court rulings to guide these interventions.
“I trust that we are a mature democracy and that appropriate actions will be taken effectively. Measures to safeguard MLAs and elected officials will be implemented, and the necessary authorities will be informed to coordinate their actions,” Bose stated.
Regarding the upcoming critical West Bengal assembly elections next year, the Governor asserted that ensuring impartial elections is the responsibility of the Election Commission of India.
“I have confidence in the ECI's capabilities and believe they will guarantee free and fair elections in West Bengal next year,” he remarked.
The vehicle carrying Murmu and Ghosh was reportedly attacked by Trinamool Congress activists on Monday afternoon in Bamundanga, Jalpaiguri district, as they headed to Nagrakata with relief supplies for flood victims.
Murmu sustained serious injuries in the alleged attack orchestrated by Trinamool Congress supporters, while Ghosh suffered minor injuries. Both are currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Siliguri in the Darjeeling district. Ghosh was discharged from the hospital on Wednesday afternoon.