President Droupadi Murmu questions venue shift, protocol lapse in Bengal

KOLKATA: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday flagged protocol lapses during her visit to the 9th International Santal Conference in Darjeeling district of West Bengal, saying neither the chief minister nor any state minister was present to receive her, triggering a political controversy.

Expressing displeasure at the shifting of the venue, Murmu said: "Had the programme been held there (at Bidhannagar), it would have been better. There is ample space there, and many people could have attended. But I do not know why the state administration did not permit the meeting there. Today's programme is being held at such a place that it is difficult for people to come. Perhaps the state government does not want the welfare of tribals, and that is why they were prevented from coming here," Murmu said.

"Mamata Banerjee is like my younger sister. I am also a daughter of Bengal. But I do not know why I was not allowed to come here. I do not know whether she is upset, and that is why the venue was shifted. Anyway, that does not matter. All of you stay well," the President said.


Murmu was invited to the annual programme, originally scheduled at Bidhannagar in Siliguri. However, citing security and other logistical reasons, authorities shifted the venue to Goshaipur near Bagdogra airport, officials said.

When the President arrived at the venue on Saturday afternoon, only a handful of people were present.

Mamata accuses Murmu of speaking on BJP's advice
Escalating her confrontation with constitutional authorities in the run-up to the assembly polls, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday accused President Droupadi Murmu of speaking "on BJP's advice", questioning her "silence" on "atrocities" against tribals in states such as Manipur and Chhattisgarh.

Banerjee also said the timing of Murmu's visit coincided with an intense political phase in the state.

"If you come once a year, I can welcome you. But, if you come repeatedly during election time, how is it possible for me to attend everything?