Kolkata: Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly criticized the government of Mamata banerjee in West Bengal after reports that the Chief Minister did not personally receive Droupadi murmu during the President’s recent visit to the state.
The issue has sparked a major political controversy, with the Prime Minister calling the incident “unfortunate” and a violation of established protocol.” He also accused the ruling All India Trinamool Congress government of showing disrespect to the constitutional office of the President.
How the Controversy Began
The controversy emerged during President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to northern West Bengal to attend an international conference related to the Santhal community.
According to media reports:
- The venue of the event was reportedly changed at the last minute.
- The Chief Minister or senior state ministers were not present to receive the President upon arrival.
- Reports indicated that the President expressed disappointment about the situation.
Some reports quoted the President as asking officials whether the Chief Minister was upset with her.
Prime Minister’s Reaction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted strongly to the incident, saying the dignity of the President’s office must be respected at all times.
He said:
“The pain expressed by the President has saddened the entire nation. The office of the President is above politics.”
He further added that ignoring such an important event connected to the Santhal community was “deeply unfortunate.”
Reactions from Other Leaders
Several leaders from the BJP also criticized the state government.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other BJP leaders described the incident as “an insult to the dignity of the President.”
Some political leaders said:
“The respect that must be shown to the President of India was not maintained.”
Mamata Banerjee’s Response
Responding to the criticism, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee rejected the allegations and accused the BJP of politicizing the issue.
She stated:
“We respect the office of the President. West Bengal is being targeted for political reasons.”
Banerjee also argued that the event was not organized directly by the state government and therefore claims of a protocol violation were incorrect.
In some statements, she also accused the BJP of using the President’s visit for political purposes ahead of elections.
Political Context
The controversy comes at a time when political tensions between the central government and the West Bengal government are already high.
Political observers believe the issue has quickly turned into a Centre–State political confrontation, especially with upcoming elections in the state.
Analysts say the ruling party at the Centre is highlighting the incident as a matter of respect for the President and the tribal community, while the Trinamool Congress views it as a politically motivated controversy.
