Meghalaya Governor Tathagata Roy has decided to extend his leave, and his return to the Raj Bhawan has become uncertain.
Governor Roy was supposed to resume charge on Saturday afternoon after spending 18 days of leave.
Officials at the Raj Bhawan in Shillong had made all the arrangements for the Governor’s return, and the entire programme was changed at the eleventh hour.
The Governor reportedly extended the leave after a telephonic conversation with someone in the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Did Home Minister Amit Shah advice the Governor to stay away from Shillong for some more time?
Governor Roy was directed to go on leave since December 18 following his controversial tweet on advising anti-CAA protesters to go to North Korea.
Also Read – Tathagata Roy to resume duty in Shillong Raj Bhavan on Saturday
The MHA probably did not want Governor Tathagata Roy to return to Shillong with the fear that he might ignite a fresh controversy in Meghalaya.
At present, the political situation in Meghalaya is highly fragile, and students and youth organizations are demanding for immediate implementation of ILP in the state.
Slightest of mistake or a controversial comment by the Governor may result in serious law and order problem.
In addition to the North Korea comment, Tathagata Roy has been at the centre of controversies for several other reasons in Meghalaya.
The Governor was caught in a series of tussles with the Conrad K Sangma-led government.
Firstly, Tathagata Roy refused to give his assent to the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security (Amendment) Ordinance passed by the State cabinet.
Secondly, the Governor also rejected the recommendation of the state government for imposition of Administrator’s Rule in Khasi Hills Autnomous District Council (KHADC).
Also Read – ILP in Meghalaya: Govt delegation, Amit Shah meeting still on hold
Officials at the Raj Bhawan told Northeast Now on Saturday afternoon that they were uncertain about the exact dates of Tathagata Roy’s return to Shillong.
Governors are entitled to take 20 days leave per year, and Tathagata Roy has exhausted all his leave.
In addition to creating controversies in Meghalaya, Tathagata Roy, even as a Governor, has been vocal about BJP’s political rivals, and especially West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee.
Rumours are also rife in the political circles of Meghalaya that Tathagata Roy may be transferred to some other state.
Before Meghalaya, Tathagata Roy has served as Governor of Tripura, and his term ends on May 20.
