Governor's Action Draws Flak: WB Education Minister slams removal of Gour Banga University's interim VC

The recent decision by West Bengal's Governor CV Ananda Bose to remove Rajatkishore Dey, the interim vice-chancellor of Gour Banga University, has sparked strong criticism from the state's Education Minister, Bratya Basu. Basu didn't mince his words, describing the governor's move as illogical and nothing more than political theatrics. His discontent was palpable, especially given the timing of the decision, coinciding with the announcement of poll dates. Basu made his sentiments clear, stating that such actions by the governor not only defy logic but also violate the model code of conduct in the midst of an ongoing electoral process.

In a press interaction, Basu voiced the frustrations of many, expressing a sentiment of exasperation towards what he deemed as meaningless antics by the governor. He pointed out the apparent contradiction between the governor's actions and the established norms of the model code of conduct. Basu also raised questions about whether the recent state convention of the West Bengal College and University Professors' Association at Gour Banga University might have triggered the governor's decision, despite the absence of the VC from the event.

The move by Raj Bhavan, announced through a notice issued on March 31, effectively revoked the authorization granted to Prof. Rajat Kishore Dey to act as the interim VC of Gour Banga University. This development follows a similar pattern to the removal of Jadavpur University's interim VC, Buddhadeb Sau, back in December, after Sau's decision to proceed with an annual convocation despite objections from Raj Bhavan.

The recent actions by Governor CV Ananda Bose have reignited debates surrounding the autonomy of educational institutions in the state, with critics arguing that such interventions undermine the integrity and independence of academic governance.