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President Murmu's Controversial Remarks Spark Tensions in West Bengal

President Droupadi Murmu's recent comments during her visit to West Bengal have ignited a political firestorm. Referring to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee as "Mamata Didi," she questioned whether the CM was upset, following her criticism of event arrangements at the International Santhal Conclave. This prompted a fierce response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who condemned the TMC for disrespecting the President. In turn, Banerjee accused Murmu of political bias and claimed the BJP was manipulating the situation. The unfolding drama highlights the ongoing tensions in West Bengal's political landscape.
By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 9, 2026, 16:26 IST

President Murmu's Statement Raises Eyebrows


During her recent visit to West Bengal, President Droupadi Murmu made a contentious remark, referring to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee as "Mamata Didi" or "little sister," and inquired, "Is Mamata Didi upset?" This comment was made at the 9th International Santhal Conclave, where the President expressed dissatisfaction over the event's arrangements, the change of venue, and the absence of the Chief Minister or any ministers.

What Sparked the Controversy?


On Saturday, President Murmu attended a program for the Santhal community in North Bengal (Darjeeling/Siliguri area) as the chief guest. She highlighted several issues:



  • The venue was changed at the last minute, preventing many Santhal attendees from arriving.


  • The new location was smaller and more remote, while the original venue could accommodate 500,000 people.


  • As a daughter of Bengal, she considers Mamata Didi like a younger sister and expressed confusion over whether she was upset with her.


  • Typically, the Chief Minister and ministers greet the President during such visits, but this did not happen here.



She also lamented the situation of the Santhal community, suggesting that it seemed as if the administration preferred no one to attend, hoping the President would leave.


PM Modi's Critique


Following these remarks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp critique against the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Mamata Banerjee. He labeled the incident as "shameful and unprecedented" and stated:



  • The TMC government disrespected the President, who belongs to the tribal community.


  • This act is an affront to the Constitution, democracy, and tribal identity.


  • The TMC's arrogance in power will soon be shattered.


  • Neither the nation nor women's empowerment will forgive this.


  • The people of Bengal will not forgive the TMC.



PM Modi also raised this issue on International Women's Day, accusing the TMC of being "anti-tribal."

Mamata Banerjee's Response


In response, Mamata Banerjee accused the President of engaging in "politics" and being a "BJP agent." She asserted:



  • There was no lapse in protocol; the event was organized by private entities.


  • The BJP is using the President to tarnish Bengal's image ahead of elections.


  • She shared an old photo showing PM Modi seated while the President stood, attempting to counter the claims of disrespect.