Former West Bengal Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty has been retained as Principal Coordinator for Development Works under the Suvendu Adhikari-led BJP government in Bengal.
Former Bengal Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty Retains Powerful Position
Former West Bengal Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty has once again been entrusted with a major administrative responsibility under the newly formed BJP government led by Suvendu Adhikari in the state. Despite being removed from the post of Chief Secretary by the Election Commission of India after the announcement of Assembly election dates, Chakraborty has now been retained as the Principal Coordinator for Development Works.
The position comes directly under the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), making it one of the most influential bureaucratic assignments in the state administration.
Key Responsibility Linked to India-Bangladesh Border
According to sources from the state secretariat in Nabanna, Nandini Chakraborty has been given the responsibility of overseeing the land transfer process for border fencing along the India-Bangladesh international border in West Bengal.
The Suvendu Adhikari-led state cabinet, during its first meeting on May 11, reportedly approved a proposal to complete the land transfer process to the Border Security Force (BSF) within 45 days. The state government believes Chakraborty’s extensive administrative experience makes her the ideal choice for handling the sensitive assignment.
Apart from border-related work, she will also supervise the implementation of centrally sponsored development projects across the state.
Why Nandini Chakraborty Matters in Bengal Bureaucracy
Nandini Chakraborty is a senior IAS officer from the West Bengal cadre and was considered one of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s closest bureaucratic aides. She also created history by becoming West Bengal’s first woman Chief Secretary.
However, her tenure in the top administrative role lasted only around two months. Shortly after Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar announced the Assembly election schedule on March 15, the Election Commission removed her from the post.
Despite the controversy, her administrative track record and experience in key departments continue to hold significant value in Bengal’s governance structure.
Strong Administrative Background
Chakraborty has held several important positions in the West Bengal government over the years. Her experience includes serving as:
| Position | Department |
|---|---|
| Home Secretary | West Bengal Government |
| Secretary | Information & Cultural Affairs |
| Secretary to Governor | Office of C.V. Ananda Bose |
| Chief Secretary | West Bengal Government |
She completed her graduation in Political Science from Kolkata’s prestigious Lady Brabourne College and later earned her postgraduate degree from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).
Appointment Earlier Triggered Controversy
Her appointment as Chief Secretary earlier this year had sparked political and bureaucratic debate because several senior IAS officers were reportedly superseded during the selection process.
Even after her removal by the Election Commission, the new BJP government’s decision to retain her in a strategic administrative role signals continued trust in her bureaucratic capabilities.
FAQ
What new role has Nandini Chakraborty received in West Bengal?
Nandini Chakraborty has been retained as the Principal Coordinator for Development Works under the Chief Minister’s Office.
Why was Nandini Chakraborty removed as Chief Secretary?
She was removed by the Election Commission after the announcement of West Bengal Assembly election dates.
What major task will she oversee now?
She will supervise the land transfer process for BSF border fencing and monitor centrally sponsored development projects.