West Bengal Government to restore security cover for former Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee’s widow

PTI, July 15, 2026, Kolkata : The West Bengal Government has decided to restore the security cover of Meera Bhattacharjee, nearly a year after it was withdrawn following the death of her husband and former Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee.

A senior official on Wednesday said the decision was taken following a review of the security arrangements for former constitutional functionaries and their immediate family members.

“The government has decided to restore security at the Palm Avenue residence of Meera Bhattacharjee. Necessary instructions have been issued and deployment (of security personnel) will be made shortly. The decision has been taken after due consideration of all relevant aspects,” the official told PTI.

Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, who served as West Bengal Chief Minister from 2000 to 2011, died on August 8, 2024, leaving behind his wife, Meera, and a son.

The TMC government had removed the security cover at the residence shortly after Bhattacharjee’s demise.

Since assuming office in May this year, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has reviewed several administrative decisions taken by the previous dispensation.

“The government believes that institutional respect for those who have held high constitutional office should remain above partisan considerations. This decision reflects that approach,” the senior officer said.

Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee chose to remain in the Palm Avenue apartment throughout his tenure as Chief Minister, despite suggestions over the years that he shift to an official residence. Following his death, Meera Bhattacharjee continued to live there.