The Trinamool Congress has lodged a complaint with the Election Commission of India against West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose, alleging his unlawful interference in the forthcoming General Elections to the Lok Sabha 2024. The complaint contends that Governor Bose has initiated a parallel electioneering system, reminiscent of the chief poll body, under the guise of a platform called "Log Sabha."
The complaint specifically accuses Governor Bose of launching the 'Lok Sabha portal, purportedly aiming to establish direct communication with the public during elections. According to the plaint, soon after the Model Code of Conduct was enforced by the ECI, the state Governor introduced a new initiative titled 'Log Sabha.'
The Trinamool Congress denounces these actions as ultra vires to the Constitution, arguing that the introduction of an additional mechanism such as 'Log Sabha' not only undermines the authority of the ECI but also diminishes its capacity to address grievances effectively, thereby causing unnecessary confusion among the electorate.
Furthermore, the complaint raises concerns regarding Governor Bose's recent visit to Dinhata in the Cooch Behar Parliamentary constituency. It alleges that during this visit, Governor Bose met with Baren Chandra Barman, a BJP-affiliated member of the legislative assembly from Sitalkuchi and chairman of the Dinhata Municipal Corporation. The TMC contends that this meeting, along with the Governor's interactions with local BJP leaders, violates the Supreme Court's directive that Governors must maintain impartiality and refrain from engaging in political conflicts.
The complaint underscores the Supreme Court's unequivocal stance that Governors are expected to uphold principles of justice, impartiality, and dignity in politics, remaining detached from partisan issues. Therefore, the TMC accuses Governor Bose of overstepping the boundaries of his role and impeding the democratic process in West Bengal.
