Ashim Kumar Ghosh takes oath as new Haryana governor

Ashim Kumar Ghosh, an 81-year-old academic and political veteran, took oath as the 19th governor of Haryana on Monday. The ceremony was held at the Raj Bhavan in Chandigarh, where Punjab and Haryana High Court chief justice Sheel Nagu administered the oath of office.

Ceremony at Raj Bhavan

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by several prominent leaders and officials. Punjab governor and Chandigarh administrator Gulab Chand Kataria, Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini, and state BJP president Mohan Lal Badoli were among the dignitaries present at the event.

Ghosh succeeds Bandaru Dattatraya, who has completed his tenure as the governor of Haryana. His appointment is being seen as a recognition of his contributions to politics and academia over several decades.

Ashim Kumar Ghosh is widely respected for his intellectual depth and political acumen. A political scientist by training, he worked as a professor at a college in Kolkata before entering active politics. Known for his analytical thinking and calm demeanour, Ghosh has long been regarded as a cerebral presence in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), particularly during the challenging years when the party was trying to make its mark in West Bengal.

During his time in the BJP, Ghosh was known for emphasising discipline, ideological clarity, and strong organisational values. His leadership style was built on research-based decision-making and thoughtful political strategy.

Political career in West Bengal

Ghosh’s active political career was at its peak during the late 1990s and early 2000s. He served as the president of the BJP’s West Bengal unit from 1999 to 2002. Under his leadership, the party witnessed modest but steady growth in a state where it had long struggled to gain ground against powerful regional and national parties.

Though Ghosh stepped away from active politics nearly two decades ago, he continued to be a respected voice within the BJP. His opinions on policy matters and party strategy were still valued, particularly by the older generation of party leaders.

His appointment as the governor of Haryana is seen as a tribute to his long-standing service and dedication to the party. Political observers believe this move also reflects the BJP leadership’s effort to honour senior leaders who laid the foundation for the party’s growth in states where it was once considered marginal.

Ghosh’s vast experience, both as an academic and a politician, is expected to help him guide the state’s governance in a non-partisan and thoughtful manner. His reputation for integrity and intellectual clarity is likely to make him an influential figure in Haryana’s political landscape.

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Leaders praise Ghosh’s elevation

Leaders present at the ceremony praised Ghosh’s long career and contribution to public life. Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini congratulated him, stating that the state will benefit from his deep knowledge of politics, governance, and administration. Punjab governor Gulab Chand Kataria also highlighted Ghosh’s contributions, calling him a leader who brings both experience and wisdom.

For Ghosh, this appointment is not only a new role but also an opportunity to continue serving the country in a constitutional capacity. His supporters believe that his ability to combine academic thinking with political pragmatism will be a major asset during his tenure.

A voice of reason within the BJP

Even during his years away from active politics, Ghosh remained involved in ideological discussions and mentoring younger leaders. He is regarded as someone who always prioritised dialogue and consensus-building over confrontation. His insights into political organisation and governance have been particularly valued in the BJP’s Bengal unit.

His journey reflects the story of many veteran leaders who, despite facing initial struggles in their political careers, stayed committed to the party’s ideology and played a role in building its base from the ground up.

As the governor of Haryana, Ghosh is expected to focus on supporting the state government in policy implementation and ensuring that constitutional processes are followed. While the governor’s role is largely ceremonial, Ghosh’s understanding of governance and administration will likely influence his approach to handling state issues.

With a career that spans academia and politics, Ashim Kumar Ghosh is widely viewed as a statesman who values both knowledge and public service. His elevation to the post of governor is seen as a well-deserved recognition of his dedication and achievements.

As he begins his new role, the people of Haryana and political circles across the country will be watching closely to see how this seasoned leader contributes to the state’s development and governance.