Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose Launches Portal to Receive Complaints of Common People During 2024 General Election
On 17th March 2024, the West Bengal governor, C V Ananda Bose, launched the ‘Log Sabha’ portal. The portal aims at fostering direct communication with the public during the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Through this initiative, individuals can reach out to the Governor via email at logsabha.rajbhavankolkata@gmail.com.
Immediate Action on Grievances and Suggestions
A statement released by the Raj Bhavan highlighted that grievances and suggestions received through the portal would be promptly addressed. The Governor’s commitment to quick action was exemplified during the previous panchayat elections when a ‘Peace Room’ at Raj Bhavan received numerous representations from the public, leading to immediate resolutions. The Governor remained accessible round-the-clock via phone and email during the panchayat election period.
Peace Room Initiative During Panchayat Election
During the panchayat election in West Bengal, A ‘peace room’ has been set up on the first floor of the Raj Bhavan in Kolkata. A helpline number and an email ID have been given to people to contact Raj Bhawan directly, to register a complaint related to the pre-panchayat poll in West Bengal.
According to the Raj Bhavan, over 350 complaints have been registered with the portal. Besides, the helpline number has been receiving many calls, for which an official, along with the OSD to the Governor has been designated.
‘Mobile Raj Bhavan’ for Polling Day
In another innovative move, the Governor’s motorcade, or ‘Mobile Raj Bhavan,’ will hit the streets before 6 am on polling days. This mobile unit is designed to enhance direct engagement with the public and ensure a seamless election process.
Assent to Salary Hike Bills
Recently, Governor Bose gave his assent to two Bills proposing salary hikes for MLAs and ministers in the state. The Bengal Legislative Assembly (Members’ Emoluments) (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and the West Bengal Salaries and Allowances (Amendment) Bill, 2023, were passed in September last year. Following this approval, MLAs’ monthly pay will increase from Rs 10,000 to Rs 50,000, while ministers will receive Rs 50,900 instead of their previous Rs 10,900 salary. Cabinet ministers’ monthly salaries will also rise from Rs 11,000 to Rs 51,000.
Expert Team to Address Land Utilisation
Governor Bose has formed an expert team to study and recommend solutions for lands in Sandeshkhali that were unlawfully acquired from villagers and converted into fish farms. The committee includes former secretary S K Pattanayak from the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation, and Farmers’ Welfare, along with an expert from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). This initiative underscores the Governor’s commitment to effective land management and equitable utilization for the benefit of local communities.
Twin priorities of C V Bose
Expressing his commitment to actively engage in the upcoming general elections, Bose declared his determination to end violence and corruption in the state.
He pledged to be present in the field from the very first day of the election process, emphasizing his dedication to serving the common people.
“I will be in the field right from day one of the election. My two priorities will be to see that no violence and corruption takes place during the election. I will be on the road at 6 am before others wake up,” he told reporters during a press meet. Moreover, He remains in close contact with the Election Commission in New Delhi, underscoring his commitment to fair and lawful elections.
Referring to his stance during last year’s panchayat elections, Bose reiterated his strong opposition to political violence, emphasizing that “political holi with human blood will not be allowed in Bengal anymore.”
