New Delhi: West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose, in a recent interview, shed light on the complex relationship he shares with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Bose clarified the differences between their personal and professional interactions between the two, while also addressing allegations of sexual harassment and concerns about the state’s financial health.
Bose acknowledged his respect for Banerjee as an individual, emphasising that they maintain a professional relationship in their official capacities. However, he drew a clear distinction, stating that “the politician Mamata Banerjee” is “not my cup of tea.” He attributed this disconnect to the blurring of lines during elections, where political agendas often overshadow personal relationships.
“Which Mamata Banerjee? There are three Mamata Banerjees in front of me… One is the individual Mamata Banerjee. I have a very good relationship with her. Second is the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. I have professional relations with her. Third is the politician Mamata Banerjee, that’s not my cup of tea,” Bose told news agency PTI.
Bose has been embroiled in a public feud with Banerjee and the Trinamool Congress (TMC), stemming from allegations of sexual harassment levelled against him by a Raj Bhavan employee. While an internal inquiry cleared him of these charges, Bose filed a defamation suit against Banerjee and TMC leaders, leading to a court order restraining them from making defamatory statements against him.
“During polls, she mixed up the issues. The CM merged with the politician, made certain statements. I also became an individual, not the Governor. I sued her for damages, for defamation. That is the complexity of the relationship,”Bose added. “Otherwise, Mamata Banerjee is my friend. The CM is my colleague and I am not a politician,” he said.
The governor further addressed the controversy surrounding pending bills, refuting the West Bengal government’s claim that he is withholding assent on eight bills. He clarified that only one bill is currently sub judice, while others are either reserved for the President or awaiting clarification from the government.
Bose also expressed concern over the state’s financial management, calling for a White Paper to assess the situation. He described the financial situation as “tardy, very poor and lopsided,” and hinted at potential action depending on the White Paper’s findings. ” Mamata Banerjee is my friend. The chief minister is my colleague and I am not a politician.”
“Politicians play certain roles in their own way. I won’t allow that to interfere with my self-respect. There the relationship stands,” he said TOI reported.
Despite the ongoing tensions, Bose emphasized his constitutional responsibility to uphold the Constitution and ensure the well-being of the people of West Bengal. He stated his willingness to take action if necessary, but refrained from disclosing specific plans, citing the Constitution’s guidelines.
“If that is not there, action has to be taken. What is the action that can be taken? It is also spelt out very clearly in the Constitution. I have not made up my mind on that,” Bose was quoted as saying by TOI.