Governor-Designate R N Ravi Set for Bengal Arrival Amid Political Scrutiny
R N Ravi, the newly appointed governor-designate for West Bengal, is anticipated to arrive in the state on Wednesday, according to informed sources. Currently stationed in Chennai, Ravi is actively monitoring the administrative and political landscape of Bengal through multiple channels, preparing for his upcoming tenure.
Predecessor C V Ananda Bose Breaks Silence on Resignation
In a significant development, former governor C V Ananda Bose addressed his resignation publicly for the first time since stepping down. Speaking to reporters at Kolkata airport upon his return, Bose described his decision to resign as a "conscious decision", emphasizing that the specific reasons will remain confidential until an appropriate time.
"I made a conscious decision to put in my papers, the reasons for which will remain confidential until the right time arrives," Bose stated. He added, "The rules of this game include knowing when it ends."
When questioned about allegations from the Trinamool Congress that he was pressured into resigning, Bose declined to comment directly, saying, "You have said it. I have heard it. I have nothing to comment on that."
Bose Reflects on Tenure and Future Plans
Further pressed on his resignation, Bose offered a metaphorical perspective: "Wherever there is an entry, there is an exit. I have completed 1,200 days as governor here, which in cricket terms is 12 centuries; that is enough. There is a time to switch off, and I believe this is the right time for me."
Clarifying logistical details, Bose noted that he resigned while in Kolkata, not during his subsequent trip to Delhi. He also affirmed his continued connection to Bengal, stating, "I am a proud voter of Bengal. I will come and cast my vote." This follows his recent transfer of his Elector's Photo Identity Card from Kerala to the Chowringhee assembly segment in Kolkata.
Ravi's Background and Preparations
R N Ravi brings a robust background to the role, having served as deputy national security adviser under the Narendra Modi government and spending decades in the Intelligence Bureau. Sources indicate he is receiving regular briefings on Bengal's affairs and is formulating his course of action post-assumption of office.
Officials confirm that Raj Bhavan is prepared for Ravi's swearing-in ceremony, with the timing awaiting finalization by the state government. Upon taking charge, Ravi is expected to:
- Hold internal consultations with key administrative officials.
- Conduct meetings with various stakeholders across the state.
- Finalize a detailed schedule of engagements after his arrival.
Bose Avoids Comment on Presidential Controversy
In a related matter, Bose, who was scheduled to receive President Droupadi Murmu in Darjeeling on the day of his resignation, chose not to weigh in on the ongoing controversy involving the President. "As a departing governor, it is not appropriate for me to comment at this juncture. Our President is a very experienced, very balanced, and very dignified lady, and she may have her reasons for commenting as she did. I am in no position to comment," he remarked.
This transition in Bengal's gubernatorial leadership marks a pivotal moment, with Ravi's impending arrival poised to influence the state's political dynamics amid ongoing administrative evaluations.
