Political tensions are mounting in West Bengal after CM Mamata Banerjee reacted strongly to President Droupadi Murmu’s comments about her visit to West Bengal. The President complained about how the Darjeeling area had been treated during her visit, questioning why neither the Chief Minister nor any members of the West Bengal government were at an event focused on tribal people that she was attending as Chief Guest.
CM Banerjee rejected the President’s remarks as incorrect and explained that arrangements had been made according to standard government procedures and the protocol approved by the President’s own Secretariat. In addition, CM Banerjee stated that both she and her ministers were not scheduled to be at that event.
The disagreement between CM Banerjee and President Murmu has opened up a larger discussion about political protocol and the manner in which official visits should be conducted.
Dispute Over Event Venue and Arrangements
The controversy focuses on a programme associated with the 9th International Adivasi Santal Conference, which took place in the Siliguri area.
During her trip to the area, Murmu, the President of India, was reported to be anxious about a location change from Bidhannagar to Goshaipur in Darjeeling District. It was also reported that fewer people attended the gathering than had been anticipated. Banerjee released documents and photos that showed that the programme had always planned to happen in Goshaipur. The government of Bengal also claims that the private organisation International Santal Council organised the gathering.
The Chief Minister also stated that District Officials had previously contacted the President’s secretaries via email about unsatisfactory space for the gathering. She reported that it was sent in writing and by phone prior to the event. Images from Banerjee allegedly portrayed an open area without sufficient infrastructure days before the programme was to begin.
State Government Defends Protocol
Banerjee stressed that there was no breach of protocol by the W.B. Administration.
The arrangement was based strictly on the President’s Secretariat line-up. The order of receipt and send-off would be through the Mayor of Siliguri, the District Magistrate and the Police Commissioner of Darjeeling, according to the approved protocol.
Banerjee added that she was also not listed on either the official programme or dais.
Therefore, the CM stated that the actions of the state government do not warrant criticism.
Political Tensions Rise
The problem has political angles. Banerjee has alleged that BJP has tried to politicise the President’s office.
According to her, the tensions between her government and Modi are heightened since Modi has made disparaging remarks about the TMC government. While Banerjee stated she has respect for the President’s office, she cautioned against conflating the constitutional functions of the President with political messages.
This saga highlights the fragile nature of the relationship between the Centre and State Governments, particularly given the high level of political tension leading up to future elections in West Bengal.
