Political Turmoil Surrounds President Murmu's Visit to West Bengal

President Droupadi Murmu's recent visit to West Bengal has sparked significant political controversy, with Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticizing the state government for inadequate arrangements and disrespect. The TMC has dismissed these claims as politically motivated, asserting that the event was well-organized. This incident, occurring amidst the backdrop of upcoming Lok Sabha elections, has intensified the rivalry between the BJP and TMC, transforming what was meant to be a focus on tribal issues into a heated political debate.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 8, 2026, 12:03 IST

Political Tensions Rise Over Presidential Visit

Kolkata. The political landscape has become increasingly contentious following President Droupadi Murmu's visit to West Bengal. Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the low turnout at an event and alleged shortcomings in the arrangements made by the state government, emphasizing the need to uphold the dignity of the presidential office.

The controversy erupted during a tribal community event near Bagdogra Airport, where President Murmu expressed disappointment over the sparse attendance and questioned the last-minute change of venue. Originally scheduled to take place in Fansidewa, the event was relocated to 'Uttaran Township' near Bidhannagar Majhi Thana due to security concerns. The President also pointed out the absence of Chief Minister Banerjee and her ministers, deeming it unacceptable.

In a post on the social media platform X, Vice President Radhakrishnan stated, "The office of the Honorable President is the highest constitutional position in our republic and deserves the dignity, protocol, and respect it warrants. The shortcomings in today's arrangements in West Bengal are unfortunate. The sanctity of the presidential office must always be preserved, and the highest position in the country should be accorded due respect."

Previously, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also criticized the West Bengal government, labeling the disrespect shown during the President's visit as 'shameful and unprecedented.' He accused the TMC government of crossing all limits and undermining the dignity of constitutional positions, asserting that this incident poses a threat to democracy and that the central government would take a firm stance on the matter.

Conversely, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) dismissed these allegations as a political conspiracy. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee asserted that there were no flaws in the event's organization and that changes were made in accordance with security protocols. She accused the opposition of politicizing the President's visit. A TMC spokesperson stated that the state government fully respected the President, and the low attendance could be attributed to weather or other local issues, rather than government negligence.

This incident occurs amid heightened activity for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal. Political analysts believe that this controversy could intensify the rivalry between the BJP and TMC. While President Murmu's visit was intended to address issues concerning tribal communities, it has now become a focal point of political dispute.