Modi Slams West Bengal for 'Disrespecting' President Murmu During Tribal Event
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused West Bengal's ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) of showing 'gross disrespect' towards President Droupadi Murmu during her recent visit. The controversy centres on the mismanagement of a tribal event, with Modi claiming the state government's actions insulted the President, the Constitution, and democratic traditions.
President Murmu travelled to West Bengal on March 7, 2026, to attend the 9th International Santal Conference, an event of personal significance given her tribal heritage and advocacy for the Santhal community. However, the state government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, abruptly shifted the venue from Bidhannagar to Gossainpur near Bagdogra Airport, citing congestion—despite the original site's capacity for 500,000 attendees.
No state minister officially received the President, breaking established protocol. The event itself suffered from poor attendance and disorganisation, with organisers reportedly unprepared. The TMC also allegedly boycotted the proceedings, further escalating tensions.
Prime Minister Modi later condemned the state's handling of the visit, labelling it a deliberate affront to the President and an attack on constitutional values. His remarks highlighted broader concerns over the treatment of India's highest office and the sanctity of democratic institutions.
The dispute has deepened political divisions, with the central government criticising West Bengal's actions as a violation of protocol and respect. The incident also underscores ongoing tensions between the TMC and the BJP, particularly over issues concerning tribal communities and constitutional propriety.
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