Kolkata: It’s no secret that West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar and chief minister
Mamata Banerjee share strained ties. On Wednesday, it was once again visible at the 6th
Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS) when Dhankhar spoke in front of the global
business community. Diplomats from 19 countries and foreign business delegations
attended the summit apart from Indian business leaders and senior officials.
In his address at BGBS, the Bengal Governor suggested that Mamata should avoid a
confrontational stance with the Narendra Modi government at the Centre and
instead, proactively catalyse “development bonhomie” with all concerned as it is
imperative to “distance development from partisan stance”.
Dhankhar, in fact, quoted PM Modi on several occasions and underscored the “look east
and act east” policy of the Centre and suggested that Bengal should be part of the
nation’s growth story.
“West Bengal must work to be a significant part of the ongoing script of India’s
economic rise by credibly exemplifying its commitment to transparent accountable
decision making that is pivoted on systemic and not individualistic functioning,” he said.
Dhankhar also spoke about the law and order situation in the state, adding that it was
necessary for a thriving business environment.
“I am sure government is alive to the need of an investment-friendly wholesome
ecosystem in governance as investors invariably look for political stability, democratic
governance, transparent, accountable mechanism and systemic working, coupled with
peaceful environment and rule of law,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mamata has never shown any qualms in expressing her displeasure over
Dhankhar’s comments, accusing her for poor governance or law and order situation
while the latter has continued to be open with his criticism.
Agencies