West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose on Wednesday (October 8) issued a stern ultimatum to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, giving her 24 hours to take strict action against those involved in the violent attack on BJP MP Khagen Murmu and MLA Shankar Ghosh during their visit to flood-affected areas of North Bengal.
Governor Bose warned that failure to act within the stipulated time would compel him to initiate measures “as per the Constitution,” hinting at possible constitutional intervention if the state government fails to maintain law and order.
The warning came after Bose met President Droupadi Murmu in Delhi and submitted a detailed report on the worsening flood situation in North Bengal and the alleged administrative collapse in the aftermath of the attack.
Addressing reporters after his meeting with the President, Bose expressed deep concern over what he described as the “anarchic” state of affairs in West Bengal.
“What is happening in Bengal is shocking. Law and order is being strangulated. Those supposed to protect the people are not doing so. This is Gunda Raj in West Bengal,” the Governor said.
He revealed that he had apprised President Murmu of the situation in Jalpaiguri’s Nagrakata area, where BJP MP Khagen Murmu and Siliguri MLA Shankar Ghosh were attacked by a mob on Tuesday while visiting flood-hit victims.
“The situation is very bad and it cannot continue. Bengal has to return to normalcy. Such things cannot happen in a civilised society,” Bose added, urging citizens and civil society groups to stand up against the rising violence.
While clarifying that his communication with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee remained “excellent,” the Governor underlined that personal rapport could not override his constitutional duties.
“Personal relationships and professional responsibilities are different. I will continue meeting all competent authorities to brief them on the ground situation,” Bose said.
He further noted that his report to the President was “confidential,” and he did not wish to engage in any political confrontation.
“I am the Governor, not a player in politics,” he stated.
The assault on BJP leaders has triggered a fierce political storm, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of resorting to violence even during a natural disaster.
In a sharp counter, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the Prime Minister of “politicising” a tragedy, alleging that the BJP was attempting to gain political mileage from the floods.
Police have so far lodged an FIR against eight individuals allegedly involved in the mob attack and are analysing video footage to identify more suspects. No arrests have been made yet.
Doctors at a Siliguri hospital treating Khagen Murmu said the BJP MP had sustained severe facial injuries, including a fractured bone below his eye, and may require surgery. MLA Shankar Ghosh, who also suffered injuries, remains under observation. Both leaders are reported to be in stable condition.
The attack occurred when Murmu and Ghosh were interacting with flood victims and inspecting damage in Nagrakata. Eyewitnesses claimed that the mob suddenly surrounded their convoy, pelting stones and vandalising vehicles before police intervened.
As the 24-hour deadline nears its end, all eyes are now on Raj Bhavan and Nabanna (the state secretariat). If the state government fails to take “satisfactory action,” Governor Bose is expected to move forward with constitutional steps, which could include a detailed report to the Centre under Article 356.
