Strained relationship all too visible

The much-awaited State Planning Board meeting saw Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi, Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy and his ministerial colleagues sharing a common platform on Saturday after months of mutual acrimony.

Ever since the relationship between titular head and elected government peaked following disputes over several issues, including awarding work for dredging, the Lt. Governor and Chief Minister have avoided sharing dais.

The ruling party avoided inviting her for the customary address during the presentation of vote on account in the Assembly. The relationship further soured with the Assembly Privileges Committee initiating contempt proceedings against two officers considered close to Ms. Bedi.

When they shared a common platform on Saturday, the camaraderie was conspicuously missing with the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister hardly exchanging any pleasantries in spite of being seated next to each other.

“The bitterness was evident throughout the proceedings,” a senior official remarked.

Seating arrangement

As the meeting began, all eyes were on Chief Secretary Manoj Parida.

“It is customary to have the Chief Secretary seated next to the Lt. Governor. But this time, the seat next to her was allocated to the Secretary to the Lt. Governor,” said an official.

However, the event ended on a happy note with Ms. Bedi and the CM having lunch together.