His new circle of influence, accept CPI(M) members, extends far beyond his post. “Gandhi has created a new political understanding between the two parties,” said a CPI(M) central committee member.

War of words

Before the Singur sugar-coating, it was a war of words between Raj Bhavan and Writers’ Buildings

NANDIGRAM VIOLENCE

Gopal Krishna Gandhi: “The ardour of Deepavali has been dampened in the whole state by the events in Nandigram. Several villages in Nandigram are oscillating from the deepest gloom to panic.”

Biman Bose: “He has crossed his constitutional rights... The Governor’s statement will not only impede normalisation of the situation at Nandigram, but also serve to instigate... He has failed to maintain his neutrality as a Governor.”

Jyoti Basu: “(Gandhi’s remarks are) undesirable... will undo the peace process.”

LOADSHEDDING

Jyoti Basu: “His action (in switching off power supply at Raj Bhavan) was not in consonance with the dignity of his post. He should have consulted the state’s Power Minister... It is an act against the state (Government). He is acting like a child.”

Power Minister Mrinal Banerjee: “If a person chooses to have a single meal because of food crisis, what can we do?”

Biman Bose: “What is the necessity of the post of Governor in this federal system? After 60 years of Independence, the time has come to think about the necessity of the post... Why is he staying in a palatial building? A large number of people in West Bengal are living without shelter. He should move to a smaller building or a flat.”