Natonal Desk : VOC

A fresh political and administrative debate has surfaced in West Bengal following allegations of protocol violations during the recent visit of President Droupadi Murmu.

Amid the growing controversy, the state government has now submitted a detailed explanatory report to the Union government, outlining the sequence of events and defending the administrative decisions taken during the President’s tour.

According to sources at Nabanna, the state’s Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty has sent a comprehensive account of the developments to Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan. The report includes relevant documents and administrative explanations regarding the arrangements made during the President’s visit.

State officials have maintained that no protocol was violated. They claim that the list of dignitaries assigned to receive and see off the President had already been approved by the President’s Secretariat, and the arrangements were made strictly in accordance with that approved list.

The report also clarifies the circumstances surrounding the change of venue for the International Tribal and Santhal Conference held during the President’s visit to North Bengal. According to the state administration, the venue shift was made due to administrative considerations, and the details have been communicated to the Union Home Ministry.

The controversy began after President Murmu’s visit to North Bengal on March 7, when she reportedly expressed concern that representatives from the tribal community were prevented from attending the programme. She also raised questions regarding the sudden change in the venue of the event.

During her remarks, the President made a comment that quickly triggered political reactions. Referring to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, she said, “Mamatadi is like my younger sister. I don’t know why she is upset with me.”

Responding to the controversy, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that she had not been informed in advance that the programme would be held in the presence of the President. According to her, while the state government was aware of the President’s visit, the organisers and purpose of the programme had not been clearly communicated.

The issue soon drew reactions from the Centre as well. Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the situation and remarked that the President should not have been disrespected.

However, the West Bengal government has firmly rejected the allegations. Officials have reiterated that all procedures outlined in the official protocol handbook—commonly referred to as the “Blue Book”—were followed during the visit.

With the report now submitted, attention has shifted to the Centre’s response. Whether the explanation will settle the controversy or lead to further political debate remains to be seen.

National Desk Voice of Calcutta