Should Elections in Bengal Be Based on Ballot Rather Than Bullet?
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Synopsis
West Bengal's Governor, CV Ananda Bose, emphasizes the need for elections centered on the ballot and not violence, highlighting the urgency to curb corruption and ensure fair electoral practices ahead of the 2026 Assembly polls.
Key Takeaways
- Governor CV Ananda Bose advocates for a shift from violence to democratic practices in elections.
- Violence and corruption are major hurdles in the electoral process.
- Urgent reforms are necessary for ensuring free and fair elections.
- The Election Commission is taking steps to maintain electoral integrity.
- The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process is crucial for cleaning up the electoral framework.
Kolkata, Nov 15 (NationPress) The Governor of West Bengal, CV Ananda Bose, expressed on Saturday that elections in the region must be grounded in the ballot rather than the bullet. His remarks followed the NDA's impressive victory in the Bihar Assembly elections.
While addressing a group of journalists at Raj Bhavan, Governor Bose stated, "In West Bengal, elections must be driven by the ballot, not the bullet. An urgent shift is necessary in the state. Any form of violence, irrespective of the cause, should be dealt with decisively. This is what Bengal needs today."
These comments come ahead of the upcoming 2026 West Bengal Assembly polls.
Governor Bose highlighted that violence and corruption during elections represent two significant obstacles in West Bengal.
"I firmly believe that these two pressing issues must be effectively tackled. Violence must be contained and corruption must be eradicated from the electoral process. The state will only regain its former glory if both corruption and violence are eliminated immediately. Without this, free and fair elections will remain unattainable in the state," he remarked.
It is essential to note that elections in West Bengal have frequently been plagued by extensive violence, particularly in the recent general elections, Assembly polls, and panchayat elections.
"This is why the Election Commission is implementing all necessary measures to ensure that elections are conducted in a free and fair manner in the state," added Bose.
When asked about the current Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in the state, Governor Bose conveyed confidence that the citizens of West Bengal would embrace the initiative.
"If there is any confusion among the populace, we must clarify that the SIR is a critical process aimed at cleansing the electoral framework and guaranteeing free and fair elections. Bihar has set a precedent, and I am confident that the people of Bengal will recognize its importance," he concluded.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize that Governor CV Ananda Bose's emphasis on prioritizing the ballot over the bullet in West Bengal elections is a crucial standpoint. The challenges of violence and corruption must be addressed to ensure that democracy flourishes in the state. The upcoming elections are a pivotal moment for the people, and it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
NationPress
15/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Governor CV Ananda Bose say about elections in West Bengal?
He stated that elections should be based on the ballot and not the bullet, emphasizing the need to curb violence and corruption.
Why is the call for reform in West Bengal elections important?
Governor Bose highlighted that without addressing violence and corruption, the state cannot achieve free and fair elections, which are essential for democracy.
What are the upcoming elections in West Bengal?
The next significant elections in West Bengal are the 2026 Assembly polls, where these issues will be critical.
