Will the Centre Stand Idly by Amid Communal Tensions in Bengal?

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Will the Centre Stand Idly by Amid Communal Tensions in Bengal?

Synopsis

West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose warns that the Centre will not ignore communal tensions in the state, following controversial remarks from a Trinamool Congress MLA. He emphasizes the importance of law and order in maintaining peace and urges the state government to act responsibly.

Key Takeaways

  • The Centre will not remain silent amid rising communal tensions.
  • Law and order must be prioritized during the election period.
  • Demographic changes are a significant concern for governance.
  • Governor Bose advocates for strong action against those who incite violence.
  • Peaceful elections are crucial for the state's political landscape.

Kolkata, Dec 4 (NationPress) West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose issued a stern warning on Thursday, stating that the Centre will not act as a silent bystander should communal tensions escalate in the state.

This cautionary statement followed Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir's controversial comments regarding the construction of a Babri Masjid in Murshidabad, which resulted in his suspension from the party.

In a candid interview with IANS, Governor Bose emphasized that no one would be permitted to transform Murshidabad into a 'school of scandal.'

He remarked, 'Information from field reports, intelligence agencies, and community leaders indicates a deliberate attempt to turn Murshidabad into a school of scandal. This will not be permitted.'

Bose clarified that the focus is not on building a religious site but on halting any actions that might inflame communal sentiments.

'This isn't just about constructing a place of worship. If anyone tries to incite communal tensions, the government, the state, and the Constitution will not sit idly by. No one will be allowed to take the law into their own hands. Strong, decisive action will be initiated against anyone who contravenes the law,' the Governor stated.

When questioned about whether the controversial Trinamool Congress MLA from Bharatpur should face preventive detention for his remarks, Bose noted that this is a decision for the state government to make.

'That is a decision that the government must make. I leave it to them. The state government has a constitutional duty to uphold law and order. They should take the necessary steps, including preventive arrest if deemed appropriate.' Bose explained.

Regarding concerns over demographic changes in Bengal, the Governor stated, 'The data is self-evident. We can reach our own conclusions. I prefer not to comment further on that matter. However, demographic shifts are occurring, and this is no secret.'

On the topic of his recent tour to various border areas in West Bengal, he remarked, 'Our border regions are secure. The BSF and the dedicated personnel of these organizations are effectively safeguarding our borders. I found no reason to distrust them; they are performing admirably. The Indian government is resolute. This is a mature democracy, and we understand what actions to take and when.'

The Election Commission of India has recently instructed the state government to ensure that Booth Level Officers are not subjected to harassment during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision initiative in the state.

In response to this issue, the Governor stated, 'This is a matter already under the consideration of the Election Commission and the state government. Let them resolve it. The Election Commission is strong and has demonstrated a balanced approach within a democracy. Differences of opinion are natural. However, our Constitution includes adequate provisions to address such situations. I am confident that the Election Commission will seek solutions to these challenges. Without state government involvement, maintaining law and order under the Constitution of India is impossible. It is the duty of state governments to provide necessary support to ensure free and fair elections in the country.'

When asked if the upcoming elections in West Bengal would be peaceful, Governor Bose replied, 'The question is not if there will be a peaceful election, but that there must be one. Violence and corruption are two cancerous diseases afflicting Bengal's political landscape. These must be addressed promptly. The provisions of the Constitution, along with the rule of law, will be invoked to guarantee that the forthcoming elections in Bengal are free from violence and corruption.'

Discussing the current state of affairs, Bose stated, 'What Bengal thinks today, India thinks tomorrow. That Bengal no longer exists. A transformation is necessary in Bengal, and that is our goal. We will succeed.'

When asked if he was comparing Bengal to Kerala, he concluded, 'I hail from Kerala but am serving in Bengal. I can only make positive comparisons between the two states. Both have enlightened populations and rich cultural heritages. As Governor, I am fostering this through initiatives like the Bengal-Kerala cultural trail and other cultural programs. Politics is not my area of expertise.'

Point of View

It is evident that the governance of West Bengal is focused on maintaining peace and stability within the region. The emphasis on law and order, especially during an election year, reflects a national priority to prevent communal tensions from escalating. The Governor's remarks indicate a proactive stance in safeguarding the democratic process, which is vital for both local and national interests.
NationPress
04/12/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Governor C.V. Ananda Bose warn about?
Governor C.V. Ananda Bose warned that the Centre would not remain passive if communal tensions escalate in West Bengal.
What was the reason behind the MLA's suspension?
Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir was suspended for making controversial comments about a Babri Masjid in Murshidabad.
What actions did Governor Bose propose against communal incitement?
Bose mentioned that strong and proactive measures would be taken against anyone inciting communal sentiments.
How does the Governor view the upcoming elections?
The Governor emphasized that elections must be peaceful and free from violence and corruption.
Is there a concern about demographic changes in Bengal?
Yes, Governor Bose acknowledged that demographic shifts are occurring and are a known issue.
Nation Press