A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly criticised Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) over alleged lapses during an event attended by President Droupadi Murmu. The issue has sparked a fresh political confrontation between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the ruling TMC in the state.
Speaking at a public gathering, Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the West Bengal government of mismanaging arrangements for an event related to the Santhal community that was attended by President Droupadi Murmu. He also alleged that the Trinamool Congress boycotted the event, calling it a “sacred occasion” and describing the situation as an insult to the President and to democratic traditions.
Modi said the alleged mismanagement and absence of the ruling party leadership reflected what he described as the “arrogance of power” within the TMC government. The Prime Minister warned that such arrogance would eventually face consequences and stated that the people of West Bengal would respond to the situation.
According to the Prime Minister, the event was significant because President Murmu herself comes from a tribal background and has consistently emphasized the development and welfare of tribal communities. He argued that failing to ensure proper arrangements for such an event was disrespectful not only to the President but also to the constitutional institutions of the country.
“This is not only an insult to the President but also an insult to the Constitution of India and the spirit of democracy,” Modi said during his address. He further accused the TMC government of engaging in what he described as “dirty politics.”
The Prime Minister also appealed to the people of West Bengal to take note of the situation and suggested that the alleged incident could have political consequences for the ruling party. He stated that the dignity of a tribal President had been disrespected and that the public, including women and tribal communities, would not forget the incident.
The controversy has intensified the political rivalry between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress ahead of future political contests in the state. West Bengal has been a major political battleground between the two parties in recent years, with both sides frequently accusing each other of administrative failures and political misconduct.
Meanwhile, the Central government has reportedly sought an explanation from the West Bengal government regarding alleged protocol violations during the President’s visit. According to official sources, the Union Home Ministry asked the state administration to submit a response by Sunday evening.
In a communication sent to the West Bengal Chief Secretary, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan requested a detailed explanation about possible breaches of the “Blue Book” protocol. The Blue Book is a confidential document that outlines security arrangements and official procedures for visits by the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, and their families.
Sources indicated that the Centre raised several questions regarding the arrangements made during the President’s visit. Among the concerns highlighted was the reported absence of senior state officials at the airport to receive the President. Under Blue Book protocol, the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, and Director General of Police are typically expected to be present during such visits.
Officials also reportedly sought clarification regarding the arrangements at the venue of the event. Reports suggested that the washroom prepared for the President allegedly lacked water, raising concerns about the adequacy of preparations for the visit.
Additionally, the Centre requested details about the route arrangements made for the President’s convoy. According to sources, questions were raised about reports that the route was not properly maintained and was allegedly littered with garbage.
The communication also asked the state government to provide information about the actions taken against officials who were directly responsible for organizing the event. These officials reportedly include the Darjeeling District Magistrate, the Siliguri Police Commissioner, and the Additional District Magistrate.
The West Bengal administration has been asked to submit a detailed report explaining the circumstances surrounding the alleged lapses. The issue has further intensified the political debate between the Centre and the state government.
Political observers note that the controversy could deepen the ongoing political tensions between the BJP and the TMC. Both parties have frequently clashed over governance issues, administrative decisions, and political narratives in the state.
As the matter continues to unfold, the response of the West Bengal government and the outcome of the Centre’s inquiry may shape the next phase of the political debate surrounding the incident.
