R.N. Ravi Sworn in as West Bengal's New Governor Today
Synopsis
In a significant political event, R.N. Ravi, a former Intelligence Bureau officer and the previous Governor of Tamil Nadu, will be sworn in as West Bengal's new governor amidst a turbulent political landscape, following the unexpected resignation of his predecessor.
Key Takeaways
Ravi is the new Governor of West Bengal, succeeding C.V.
The oath-taking ceremony is set for 11:30 a.m. today at Lok Bhavan.
Political tensions rise as assembly elections approach.
Mamata Banerjee claims lack of consultation in the appointment process.
Ravi's appointment marks a significant political milestone in West Bengal.
Kolkata, March 12 (NationPress) R.N. Ravi, a former high-ranking officer from the Intelligence Bureau and the previous Governor of Tamil Nadu, is set to be inaugurated as the new Governor of West Bengal today. Ravi arrived in Kolkata late on Wednesday night, and the oath-taking ceremony is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. at Lok Bhavan, previously known as Raj Bhavan. The Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court, Sujoy Paul, will officiate the ceremony.
This event marks a rare occasion where both the West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, and the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, will be in attendance.
Ravi becomes the second former IB chief to assume the role of West Bengal Governor in the last fifteen years. Prior to the pivotal Assembly elections in West Bengal in 2011, which led to the end of a 34-year-long Left Front rule and the rise of Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress, former IB chief and National Security Adviser, M.K. Narayanan, was appointed as Governor.
Political analysts suggest that the timing of Ravi's appointment is noteworthy, occurring as the state approaches significant Assembly elections.
His appointment follows the abrupt resignation of the former governor, C.V. Ananda Bose, on the evening of March 5.
Bose's unexpected resignation, particularly ahead of the elections, stirred political tensions, with the ruling Trinamool Congress attributing it to pressure from the Union government. However, Bose dismissed these claims, stating his resignation was a personal choice.
Since Bose's departure, Mamata Banerjee has publicly expressed her surprise at his sudden resignation and accused the Union Ministry of Home Affairs of appointing Ravi as his successor without prior consultation.
"The Union Home Minister simply informed me that Shri R.N. Ravi has been designated as the Governor of West Bengal. He did not consult with me as is customary in such matters," said the Chief Minister, underlining that this act undermines the spirit of the Indian Constitution and threatens the core of the nation's federal structure.
Point of View
R.N. Ravi's appointment as West Bengal's Governor comes at a critical juncture. With Assembly elections looming and political tensions rising, this transition could significantly impact the state's governance and political dynamics. Observers will be keenly watching how the new governor navigates these challenges amidst allegations of political maneuvering.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When will R.N. Ravi be sworn in?
R.N. Ravi will take his oath as the Governor of West Bengal today at 11:30 a.m.
What was the reason for the previous governor's resignation?
C.V. Ananda Bose resigned suddenly, which the ruling party attributed to pressure from the Union government, although Bose claimed it was a voluntary decision.
Why is this event politically significant?
Ravi's appointment comes just before crucial Assembly elections, raising questions about its timing and implications for governance.
What concerns did Mamata Banerjee raise regarding the appointment?
Mamata Banerjee expressed that she was not consulted about Ravi's appointment, which she sees as undermining constitutional norms.
