Who is Governor CV Ananda Bose? Unveils His Own Statue, Raj Bhavan Clarifies Controversy

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose faces criticism for unveiling his own statue at Raj Bhavan. The move sparked controversy, with political parties targeting the governor.

By Palak Pathak Updated: Nov 25, 2024, 19:27 IST

Who Is Governor CV Ananda Bose? The Statue Controversy Explained

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose is once again in the news, but this time over a bizarre controversy. It has been alleged that he had unveiled a statue of himself at the Raj Bhavan, which was heavily criticized by the opposition parties, TMC and CPI(M). Let's get to know the governor in a little more detail and the controversy surrounding him.

CV Ananda Bose was born on 2nd January 1951 in Mannanam, Kottayam, Kerala. He had a distinguished career. He got his Ph.D. from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, and subsequently joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1977. Throughout his years in service, Bose took on some of the most important posts, such as Chief Secretary in the Government of India and Vice-Chancellor of a university.

After retirement from the IAS, he entered politics and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. On November 23, 2022, Bose was appointed Governor of West Bengal.

The Statue Controversy

Bose attended a tree-planting event at Raj Bhavan to commemorate two years of his governorship. He also unveiled a statue of himself, which was reportedly prepared by artist Partha Saha and gifted to him. This act caused a political storm.

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The TMC Vice President and spokesperson Jay Prakash Majumdar criticized Bose. Majumdar labelled the unveiling as "inappropriate" and stated that the governor indulged in self-glorification. CPI(M) central committee member Sujan Chakraborty also echoed the same feeling by stating it was unfortunate and improper
In the face of growing criticism, Raj Bhavan has clarified that there was no installation of the statue on its estate. According to the statement issued by it, many artists often submit sculptures and portraits to the governor; this one was just a gift. This is not a public installation as well.

This incident adds another chapter to the governor's contentious relationship with the political landscape of West Bengal, further putting widespread debates regarding propriety and governance on the table.