Governor directs Raj Bhavan staff to ignore Kolkata Police communications related to sexual harassment charges

West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose is at the center of controversy after a sexual harassment complaint was filed against him by a female Raj Bhavan employee. The Governor has directed the Raj Bhavan staff to ignore any communication from the Kolkata Police in connection with the complaint. Additionally, he has banned the entry of police personnel and the Minister of State for Finance into the Raj Bhavan.

The Kolkata Police has constituted a special inquiry team to look into the allegations of molestation against the Governor. However, Mr. Bose has cited constitutional immunity granted to Governors, stating that no criminal proceedings can be initiated against him during his term of office.

The move has sparked outrage in the State’s political circles, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemning the Governor’s actions. The ruling party, Trinamool Congress, has also expressed shock at the incident.

This incident brings to light the constitutional privilege granted to Governors, which provides them with immunity against criminal proceedings during their term in office. Past precedents, such as the resignation of Andhra Pradesh Governor N D Tiwari and Meghalaya Governor V Shanmuganathan in the wake of similar allegations, highlight the sensitivity of such cases.

While the immunity is not lifelong and is limited to the Governor’s term in office, the Supreme Court has clarified that Governors are not beyond the ambit of judicial review. This means that their actions can still be subject to scrutiny by the courts.

The unfolding events surrounding the West Bengal Governor’s case underscore the complex interplay between constitutional privileges, legal proceedings, and public accountability. As the investigation progresses, it remains to be seen how the matter will be resolved within the framework of the law and governance.