Governor Recommends Removal of West Bengal Education Minister for Alleged MCC Violation

The move comes in response to Basu's alleged violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by organizing a meeting with politicians at the University of Gour Banga.

In a recent development, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has issued a recommendation for the removal of Education Minister Bratya Basu from the state cabinet. The move comes in response to Basu's alleged violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by organizing a meeting with politicians at the University of Gour Banga.

According to a statement from Raj Bhavan to the Bengal government, the Governor, who oversees all state-run universities as the chancellor, directed strict action against Basu for what was deemed a deliberate violation of the MCC. The meeting at Gour Banga University, which took place on March 30, included the presence of other ministers, MPs, MLAs, and political leaders.

Bose expressed concern that Basu's decision to convene the meeting on the university premises has brought discredit to the university system. The Governor's stance indicates a strong disapproval of such actions, particularly within educational institutions.

Reacting to the Governor's recommendation, Basu dismissed the suggestion as "laughable" and accused Bose of misusing his constitutional position to advance his political agenda. Basu asserted that if any violation of the election code had occurred, it was the responsibility of political parties to address it with the Election Commission, rather than the Governor intervening directly.

Basu further contended that the Indian Constitution grants the authority for the appointment or removal of ministers solely to the Chief Minister, implying that the Governor had overstepped his constitutional boundaries.

The clash between the Governor and the Education Minister underscores the ongoing political tensions in West Bengal and raises questions about the appropriate channels for addressing alleged violations of electoral conduct.