The ongoing deadlock between West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose and Speaker Biman Banerjee regarding the swearing-in of two newly elected TMC legislators continued on Wednesday. While the governor insisted on administering the oath at Raj Bhavan, the Speaker wanted it to be held at the legislative assembly. This disagreement has caused tension and accusations of ego battles between the two leaders. Meanwhile, the two MLAs at the center of the controversy have vowed to continue their sit-in protest while awaiting a resolution.
West Bengal Stalemate Continues: Governor and Speaker Clash over MLA Swearing-In
The political standoff in West Bengal has deepened as Governor C V Ananda Bose and Speaker Biman Banerjee remain at loggerheads over the swearing-in of two newly elected Trinamool Congress (TMC) legislators. The impasse has exposed tensions between the two leaders and raised questions about the role of the governor.
Background
The controversy stems from the elections held on September 30, 2022, in which TMC candidates Babul Supriyo and Dibyendu Adhikari were declared victorious. As per the established practice, the MLAs were expected to be sworn in by the Speaker at the state legislative assembly.
However, Governor Bose insisted that he had the constitutional authority to administer the oath at Raj Bhavan, the official residence of the governor. The Speaker refused, arguing that it would undermine the powers of the legislature.
Current Situation
The standoff has escalated, with both leaders trading accusations. Bose has accused Banerjee of being disrespectful to the governor's office, while the Speaker has accused Bose of trying to interfere in the assembly's affairs.
The two MLAs, Supriyo and Adhikari, have launched a sit-in protest outside the assembly, demanding to be sworn in. They have vowed to continue the protest until a resolution is reached.
Top 5 FAQs
Q1: Why is the governor insisting on administering the oath outside the assembly?
A1: Bose claims that he has the constitutional authority to do so and that it is his responsibility to ensure the proper functioning of the legislature.
Q2: Why is the Speaker refusing to allow the oath to be taken at Raj Bhavan?
A2: Banerjee argues that it would set a precedent for the governor to interfere in the affairs of the assembly and undermine its powers.
Q3: What is the constitutional basis for the governor's claim?
A3: Article 175 of the Constitution states that the governor is the constitutional head of the state and has the power to appoint and dismiss ministers, summon and dismiss the assembly, and address or send messages to the assembly.
Q4: What is the constitutional basis for the Speaker's claim?
A4: Articles 178 and 194 of the Constitution state that the Speaker presides over the assembly, has overall control over its affairs, and has the power to administer oaths to members.
Q5: What is the potential impact of this standoff?
A5: The stalemate could delay the functioning of the assembly and lead to further political tensions in West Bengal. It could also set a precedent for governors to assert their influence over legislatures in other states.
At a pro-Palestine protest in London, Independent MP Jeremy Corbyn promised to use his voice to advocate for peace, justice, equality, and humanity. As emotions ran high among the protesters, Corbyn urged them to stand strong in the face of the new Labour government in power. The powerful message delivered by Corbyn on this historic Sunday in 2024 left a resounding impact on the crowd gathered, who were all united in their support for Palestinian rights.
The Delhi High Court has scheduled a hearing for Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's request for two additional meetings with his lawyers while he is in judicial custody. Despite his involvement in multiple legal battles, the trial court previously denied his request for extra video conferencing meetings. However, the court noted that Kejriwal's co-accused was granted similar meetings earlier this year. The court also recently rejected Kejriwal's request to have his wife present during his consultations with the medical board.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has reaffirmed his dedication to addressing poverty in his hometown of Kuppam. He emphasized the need for a coordinated approach and simple government policies in achieving this goal during a review meeting held on June 26. The Chief Minister also highlighted his government's plans for providing clean water, promoting agricultural policies, and attracting food processing industries to transform Kuppam into an education hub. Additionally, he expressed his disapproval of political interference in law enforcement and instructed officials to prioritize responsiveness and conclude meetings by 6 p.m.
As the new basic education minister in South Africa, 34-year-old Siviwe Gwarube will be celebrating her 35th birthday in just one week. She will also be making history as the youngest Cabinet minister in the country, breaking the record previously held by Ronald Lamola. Gwarube's appointment comes after the recent Cabinet lekgotla.
The Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha, Pravati Parida, has urged media houses to refrain from spreading misleading news and speculation about the Subhadra Yojana, a scheme still in the draft stage, which promises to provide Rs 50,000 to women within 100 days. With the BJP government recently coming into power in the state, there is a lot of anticipation and eagerness among potential beneficiaries. However, Parida has emphasized the need for responsible reporting and cooperation with the government in accurately informing the public about the details and eligibility criteria for the scheme. She also shared updates on other initiatives such as a tree-planting campaign and preparations for rural tourism.
The government's efforts to beautify the Kukrail river in Lucknow have taken a strict turn with the irrigation department issuing a ban on all types of construction within 50 meters on both sides of the river. This move comes after 1400 illegal encroachments were demolished in Akbarnagar I and II. Officials are working to identify flood zones and put a stop to any activities that may harm the river's ecosystem. This decision has been welcomed by citizens and experts alike, paving the way for the preservation of Lucknow's natural heritage.
In a shocking turn of events, former Pakistani Prime Minister and current leader of the PTI party, Imran Khan, has threatened to go on a hunger strike if Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa of the Supreme Court does not handle his cases fairly. Khan's concerns stem from a history of mistrust with Chief Justice Isa and a belief that he will not receive fair treatment in the ongoing cases against him and his party.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah took charge as the Minister of Cooperation, with a focus on strengthening the rural economy and empowering farmers, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Sahkaar Se Samriddhi'. In his tweet, Shah expressed commitment to bringing positive change in the lives of millions associated with this sector. This comes as an important development in the Modi 3.0 government and is expected to give rise to new opportunities for the growth of the cooperative sector.
Sunita Kejriwal, wife of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, releases a video exposing the plot behind her husband's arrest. She claims that an NDA MP falsely accused Kejriwal of corruption after his son was arrested by ED. Sunita urges the public to support her "kattar imaandar" husband and questions the actions of Modi government in this political conspiracy.
The death of BSP state president K Armstrong has led to outrage and protests in Tamil Nadu, with supporters claiming that his murder was planned. The police have detained eight suspects, but political leaders and supporters have expressed doubts about their involvement. With demands for a CBI investigation, the murder has raised further questions and concerns in the state's political landscape.