Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday strongly criticised the ruling All India Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal following remarks by President Droupadi Murmu expressing dissatisfaction over arrangements during her recent visit to the state. Calling the episode “shameful and unprecedented,” the Prime Minister said the developments had saddened people across the country, especially those who support democratic values and the empowerment of tribal communities.
In a post on social media platform X, Modi said the pain and anguish expressed by the President, who herself comes from a tribal background, had deeply affected citizens nationwide. He added that the situation reflected poorly on the state administration and amounted to an insult to the dignity of the President’s office. The Prime Minister also said it was unfortunate that a culturally significant event linked to Santal heritage was handled casually.
The controversy began after President Murmu raised concerns regarding arrangements for an international event held in Siliguri during her one-day visit. She had travelled to attend the 9th International Santal Conference organised by the International Santal Council. Speaking later at another programme in Bidhannagar, the President questioned the choice of venue, stating that the Siliguri location was too small for an event of that scale and that a larger venue could have accommodated far more attendees. She also noted that neither West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee nor any state minister was present to receive her, pointing to what she described as protocol lapses.
The Bharatiya Janata Party also criticised the state government, alleging disrespect toward the country’s highest constitutional office. In a statement, the party’s West Bengal unit said the situation went beyond an administrative lapse and indicated a broader decline in constitutional propriety and governance standards.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal accused the state government of breaching established protocol during the event and described the incident as an affront to the dignity of the President’s office. He said the episode also reflected disregard for tribal communities whose cultural contributions deserved respect.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed similar views, stating that the incident demonstrated serious disregard for protocol and constitutional values. He said the episode had caused widespread disappointment among citizens who believe in democratic principles.
During the conference, President Murmu praised India’s tribal communities for preserving their traditions over centuries. She encouraged tribal groups to embrace modern development while safeguarding their language, customs, and environment. As the first tribal President of India and a member of the Santal community, she also urged tribal youth to learn additional languages and scripts while remaining rooted in their cultural identity.
The President’s visit had originally been planned as a two-day programme beginning March 6, including travel to Darjeeling. However, the schedule was revised after the resignation of West Bengal Governor C. V. Ananda Bose. Following the development, R. N. Ravi was given additional charge as the Governor of West Bengal.
