"Word-War" in Bengal amidst Corona Crisis

Sharply reacting to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's assertion that " She was an "elected Chief Minister of a proud Indian state", while Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar was a "nominated functionary", the latter hit back saying, " Your constant refrain of governor being 'nominated' is lamentable and can be ascribed only to elementary ignorance of the Constitution. "

" We both need to reflect that in this hour of crisis, we work in togetherness for the interest and welfare of the people of the state of West Bengal, more particularly when we are facing a severe Covid-19 challenge, and people in deep distress, " Mr Dhankhar noted in his letter.

" I need to indicate firmly that there has been total failure at your end all through as regards compliance of constitutional prescriptions qua the constitutional head. The enormity of the situation and lapses at your end are that in spite of repeated communications for compliance you have 'black hold' all my communications resulting in virtual negation of Article 166 and 167 of the Constitution, " the Governor shot back.

" The State and people cannot be made to suffer at the hands of those who compromise constitutional prescriptions, " Mr Dhankhar asserted.

"Ms Banerjee in her five-page letter yesterday came down heavily on the Governor, saying, " You appear to have forgotten that I am an elected Chief Minister of a proud Indian state. You also seem to have forgotten that you are a nominated Governor. "

Mr Dhankhar said, " People need to know all. State and people cannot be made to suffer at the hands of those who compromise constitutional prescriptions. None is above Law. "

Mr Dhankhar further said, " Communication @MamataOfficial has been received. Outrageously factually wrong and constitutionally infirm. People of the state need to know the real picture. "

Earlier, Mr Dhankhar urged Ms Banerjee to ensure seamless way forward for Central teams.

Mr Dhankhar said, " Concerned at Rebuff to Central Teams. "

" Red Carpet visit of WHO to East Midnapur and Bishnupur. What outcome and gain of WHO visit ? Declare ! he asked.

“Time to take to Constitution. Let concerned handle Mikes/Brooms,” the Governor added.

Meanwhile, Covid-19 toll in the state stood at 15, while the count of active cases jacked up to 334, according to last Health Department bulletin.