A political controversy has erupted following remarks made by President Droupadi Murmu during her visit to Darjeeling in West Bengal, where she expressed disappointment over the venue arrangements for the International Santal Conference. Prime Minister Narendra Modi later reacted strongly, criticising the state government and calling the episode “shameful and unprecedented.”
The issue has sparked debate over the handling of the event and the absence of the state’s top leadership during the President’s visit.
President Says: Venue Choice Prevented Many From Attending
Addressing people in Darjeeling after attending the International Santal Conference, President Murmu said the venue selected for the event could have been better planned. She noted that the place she visited later was spacious enough to host a large gathering.
According to the President, the administration had earlier informed her that the location was congested and unsuitable for a major event. However, after seeing the area herself, she said she felt that even five lakh people could have gathered there comfortably.
Murmu questioned why the conference was organised at a distant location that made it difficult for many members of the Santal community to attend.
She expressed sadness that several people from the local Santal community were unable to reach the conference venue because it was held far away.
The President also referred to the absence of the state leadership during her visit. She said that when the President travels to a state, it is customary for the Chief Minister and ministers to be present.
Referring to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Murmu said she considers herself a daughter of Bengal and described Mamata Banerjee as her younger sister, adding that she was unsure whether the Chief Minister was upset with her.
PM Modi Says: “Office of the President Must Be Respected”
Reacting to the President’s remarks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the West Bengal government and said the developments had saddened many across the country.
In a post on social media, Modi said that people who believe in democracy and the empowerment of tribal communities were deeply disheartened by the situation.
He said the pain and anguish expressed by President Murmu, who herself belongs to a tribal community, had caused great concern among citizens.
The Prime Minister accused the state’s ruling All India Trinamool Congress government of crossing all limits and said its administration was responsible for what he described as an insult to the President.
Modi also said it was unfortunate that an important subject such as Santal culture had been treated casually by the state government.
“The office of the President is above politics and the sanctity of this office should always be respected,” the Prime Minister said, expressing hope that the West Bengal government would act with greater responsibility in the future.