Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday sharply criticised the All India Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal over alleged protocol lapses during the visit of President Droupadi Murmu and the sudden change of venue for the International Santhal conference.
The controversy erupted after President Murmu publicly expressed disappointment over the handling of the event by the state administration. She claimed permission for the International Santhal conclave in North Bengal had been denied and also pointed out that neither Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee nor any state minister received her at the airport, which she said went against established protocol.
Reacting to the development on X, Modi described the situation as “shameful and unprecedented”. He said the incident had hurt people across the country, especially those who believe in strengthening tribal communities.
“The pain and anguish expressed by Rashtrapati Ji, who herself comes from a tribal background, has saddened people across India,” the Prime Minister wrote. He further accused the West Bengal government of showing disregard for both the office of the President and the cultural significance of the Santhal community.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also criticised the state government, alleging that it had reached a new low by disrespecting the country’s highest constitutional office.
Shah said the episode reflected poorly on the administration and described it as an insult not only to the President but also to the values of India’s constitutional democracy.
What happened during Murmu’s visit?
The issue stems from arrangements for the 9th International Santhali Conclave, which was originally planned to be held in Bidhannagar. According to President Murmu, the venue was later shifted by the authorities to a smaller location in Gosaipur, close to Bagdogra Airport, citing congestion concerns.
Organisers also reportedly raised complaints about inadequate infrastructure at the new venue, including stage arrangements and sanitation facilities.
Murmu later travelled to Phansidewa, an area with a large Adivasi population, and expressed concern that many members of the Santhal community might not be able to attend the event because of the sudden change in venue.
During her remarks, the President said she felt deeply hurt by the situation but maintained that she held no personal grievance against the chief minister.
“I am also a daughter of Bengal. Mamata ‘Didi’ is like my younger sister. I don’t know if she is upset with me for some reason, but I have no complaints,” Murmu said, while wishing well for the people of the state.
Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party accused the Trinamool Congress government of undermining constitutional norms. BJP leader Amit Malviya said the incident reflected a serious lapse in governance and respect for institutions.
“When a state government disregards the dignity of the office of the President, it signals a breakdown of constitutional propriety,” he said.
The controversy has since triggered a political war of words, with the BJP accusing the West Bengal government of disrespecting both the President and the tribal community, while the issue continues to fuel tensions between the two sides.
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