Will Partha Chatterjee Face Equal Treatment as an Independent MLA in the Assembly?
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Synopsis
In a recent statement, the Speaker of the West Bengal Assembly announced that Partha Chatterjee, now an independent MLA, will not be granted any special treatment. This decision marks a significant change following his ministerial tenure and ongoing legal troubles.
Key Takeaways
- Partha Chatterjee will not receive special treatment as an independent MLA.
- His new seating arrangement is indicative of his current status.
- He has reached out for clarification regarding his suspension.
- Chatterjee's legal troubles continue to impact his political career.
Kolkata, Nov 26 (NationPress) The Speaker of the West Bengal Assembly, Biman Bandopadhyay, stated on Wednesday that the former state Education Minister and ex-Trinamool Congress secretary general Partha Chatterjee will not receive any special privileges within the Assembly, unlike when he was part of the state cabinet.
The Speaker clarified that Chatterjee, who is now serving as an independent legislator after his suspension from the Trinamool Congress following his arrest by Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials in July 2022 in relation to the cash-for-school-job case in West Bengal, will not have access to a separate room within the Assembly premises, a privilege he previously held as a minister.
As an independent MLA, he will not be assigned a seat on either the treasury or the opposition bench. Reports indicate that he will receive a seat positioned between these two benches, typically designated for independent legislators or representatives of parties with minimal representation in the House.
Currently, the solitary All India Secular Front (AISF) MLA Nawsad Siddique occupies a seat in this transitional area.
Earlier today, Chatterjee's office sent a letter to the Speaker's office, inquiring about the start date of the upcoming winter session of the West Bengal Assembly, indicating his desire to participate in the session.
He was granted bail earlier this month after spending over three years in judicial custody.
Post-release, he reached out to the West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, Trinamool Congress general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, and the party’s state president Subrata Bakshi, seeking clarification on the provisions of the Trinamool Congress constitution that led to his suspension.
However, to date, his correspondence has not received any response.
Point of View
The situation surrounding Partha Chatterjee sheds light on the broader implications of political accountability and the treatment of legislators post-suspension. This case highlights the need for transparency and fairness within political institutions.
NationPress
26/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What special treatment can independent MLAs receive?
Independent MLAs typically do not receive the same privileges as cabinet ministers, including designated rooms or seating arrangements.
Why was Partha Chatterjee suspended?
Partha Chatterjee was suspended following his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with a cash-for-school-job case.
What is the significance of the new seat arrangement?
The new seating arrangement reflects the independent status of Chatterjee and signifies a shift from his previous privileges as a minister.
