A major political controversy has erupted following allegations of ‘disrespect’ during the West Bengal visit of President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday. Taking serious note of the incident, the Union Home Ministry has sought an explanation from the state government and demanded a detailed report.
Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has written to West Bengal Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty, asking the state administration to submit a comprehensive report on the incident and the actions taken by the state government.
According to sources, the Centre has taken a strict stance and instructed that the report be submitted to the North Block in New Delhi by 5 PM on Sunday.
The issue escalated further after Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly criticised the incident. Posting in Bengali on social media, the Prime Minister described the situation as “shameful and unprecedented,” stating that people who believe in democracy and the empowerment of tribal communities were deeply shocked.
He said the concerns expressed by the President, who comes from a tribal background, had caused sorrow among citizens across the country. Modi also accused the West Bengal government of failing to uphold the dignity of the President’s office. “The post of President is above politics, and its dignity must always be protected,” he wrote, adding that the state government had “crossed all limits” and that the matter had been handled irresponsibly.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also criticised the state administration, alleging that official protocol was not followed during the President’s visit. In a post on social media, Shah said the incident had tarnished the dignity of the country’s highest constitutional office. The controversy stems from Murmu’s visit to North Bengal on Saturday, where she attended the ninth International Santal Conference in Siliguri. During the event, the President expressed disappointment over the arrangements and the apparent lack of participation.
Addressing the gathering, Murmu remarked that many chairs at the venue were empty, raising questions about the organisation of what was described as an international conference. She also visited another nearby location that was initially proposed for the event and commented that it could have accommodated a significantly larger crowd.
Referring to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the President said she did not understand why the Chief Minister appeared upset with her. She described herself as “a daughter of Bengal” and said she felt saddened by the situation, though she clarified that she held no personal grievance.
During her speech, Murmu also raised concerns about the condition of tribal communities in the state, questioning whether they were receiving government benefits and welfare schemes adequately.
Mamata responded to the remarks later the same day from a protest stage at Dharmatala in Kolkata. She stated that she respects the President but alleged that Murmu was being used by the BJP to promote a political agenda. She added that the state government welcomes all dignitaries who visit West Bengal, but said it is not always possible for the Chief Minister to personally attend every event due to administrative responsibilities.
The exchange of statements has triggered intense political debate, with the Centre demanding accountability from the state government while the Trinamool Congress leadership rejects the allegations and accuses the BJP of politicising the President’s visit.
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