PM Modi Criticizes TMC for Ignoring Presidential Protocol in West Bengal
Modi's Strong Remarks on TMC's Disregard for Presidential Protocol
In New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his discontent with the West Bengal government led by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for failing to adhere to the protocol concerning President Droupadi Murmu. On social media platform 'X', he stated, "This is disgraceful and unprecedented. Everyone who believes in democracy and the empowerment of tribal communities is disheartened. The pain and anguish expressed by the President, who hails from a tribal community, resonates deeply with the people of India."
TMC's Administration Blamed for Insulting the President
PM Modi further remarked, "The TMC government in West Bengal has truly crossed all limits. Their administration is accountable for this insult to the President. It is equally unfortunate that the state government treats significant issues like Santhal culture with such negligence. The office of the President should be above politics, and its sanctity must always be respected. I hope the West Bengal government and TMC will come to their senses."
President Murmu Surprised by Lack of Welcome from Mamata
Earlier, President Droupadi Murmu referred to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee as her 'younger sister' and expressed surprise at her absence during the welcoming ceremony. During her visit to North Bengal, neither the Chief Minister nor any ministers were present to greet her. Murmu made these comments while addressing a gathering of tribal communities in Bidhannagar, near Siliguri, after attending an event in Ghoshpur near Bagdogra Airport.
She stated, "Mamata Banerjee is like my younger sister. I am also a daughter of Bengal. I do not know if she is upset or not. Nevertheless, it does not matter. I hope everyone is well."
Concerns Over Venue Change for Tribal Event
Murmu also questioned the decision to move the annual tribal community event from Bidhannagar to Ghoshpur, where attendance was reportedly low. She commented, "If the event had been held in Bidhannagar, it would have been better. There is ample space there, and many people could have attended. However, I do not understand why the state administration did not grant permission for the event there. Today's program is taking place in a location that is difficult for people to reach."
She added, "Perhaps the state government does not wish for the welfare of the tribal communities, which is why they were prevented from coming here."
Low Attendance at the Event
President Murmu was invited to the annual tribal community event, which was initially scheduled to take place in Bidhannagar. However, officials cited security and logistical reasons for relocating the venue to Ghoshpur near Bagdogra Airport. When the President arrived at the event site on Saturday afternoon, only a handful of people were present.
The only representative there to welcome her was Gautam Deb, the Mayor of Siliguri. According to protocol, the Chief Minister or a minister from the state government typically greets the President. Meanwhile, Mamata Banerjee continued her protest in Kolkata against the arbitrary removal of names from the voter list in West Bengal for the second consecutive day.