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Siddhartha Shankar Ray
Context:
14th Death Anniversary of Former Chief Minister and Governor.
About:
- Siddhartha Shankar Ray was a prominent Indian lawyer, diplomat, and politician associated with the Indian National Congress from West Bengal.
- His political career included significant roles such as the Chief Minister of West Bengal (1972–1977), Union Minister of Education (1971–1972), Governor of Punjab (1986–1989), and Indian Ambassador to the United States (1992–1996).
Role in the Indian Political System Post-Independence:
- After India gained independence, Ray emerged as a key figure in West Bengal’s political landscape.
- He began his political career as a minister in the cabinet of Chief Minister Bidhan Chandra Roy in 1957, focusing on law and tribal welfare.
- His influence grew within the Congress party, particularly during the tumultuous political environment of the 1970s, where he became a close advisor to Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
- His strategic insights helped him navigate complex political challenges, leading to his appointment as Union Minister responsible for West Bengal affairs in 1971.
Role in India’s Emergency:
- Ray played a crucial role during the Emergency declared by Indira Gandhi from 1975 to 1977.
- He was instrumental in advising Gandhi on the necessity of imposing an “internal emergency” due to perceived threats to national security stemming from widespread civil unrest and political opposition.
- Ray drafted a letter for the President that justified the proclamation of Emergency, emphasising the need to maintain order while operating within constitutional limits.
- His actions during this period have been described as controversial; while some viewed him as an architect of authoritarian measures, others saw him as a pragmatic leader responding to national crises.
Contributions as Chief Minister of West Bengal:
- As Chief Minister, Ray faced significant challenges, including managing the influx of refugees from Bangladesh following its liberation war and addressing rampant Naxalite violence in West Bengal.
- His administration took a hardline approach to restore law and order, which included granting police greater authority to combat Naxalite insurgents.
- This strategy led to some controversial incidents but ultimately contributed to stabilising the state.
- Ray’s tenure also saw notable infrastructural developments, including the initiation of Kolkata’s Metro Railway project.
- He implemented policies aimed at rehabilitating refugees and improving urban infrastructure, such as establishing new water treatment facilities.
