A significant political controversy has erupted in election-bound West Bengal following President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to North Bengal. During her trip, the President raised eyebrows by suggesting that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee might be personally upset with her, citing a series of administrative hurdles that disrupted her scheduled events.

A Series of Logistical Hurdles

The friction began over the venue for the 9th International Santhal Conference. Organizers alleged a lack of cooperation from the state government, claiming that the venue was changed four times. While the event was originally planned for Bidhannagar in the Siliguri subdivision, the administration eventually restricted the gathering to Gosaipur, near Bagdogra Airport, citing security concerns.
Upon arriving at the Gosaipur venue, President Murmu was met with rows of empty seats. Organizers claimed that many invited guests were blocked by police or denied security passes, preventing them from attending.

President Breaks Protocol to Express Displeasure

Visible disappointed by the low turnout and the venue shifts, President Murmu did not mince words during her address. “Why are so many chairs empty? I understand that someone is creating obstacles,” she remarked.

In an unusual move, the President later visited the originally proposed site in Bidhannagar to inspect the grounds herself.

“I wanted to hold the meeting here. There is ample space. I don’t understand why the state government denied permission,” the President stated.

Addressing her relationship with the Chief Minister, she added, “She [Mamata Banerjee] is like a younger sister to me. Perhaps she is angry with me for some reason, which is why this permission was withheld.”

A Breach of Protocol?

The controversy extended beyond the venue. The President noted the absence of the Chief Minister and state cabinet ministers, pointing out that official protocol dictates the President be received by high-ranking state representatives upon arrival.

The State’s Response

Siliguri Mayor Goutam Deb defended the government’s position, stating that he officially welcomed the President on behalf of the state alongside the District Magistrate and the Police Commissioner. Regarding the venue dispute, Deb maintained that the decisions were based entirely on security assessments and that the guest list and schedule had been previously vetted.

As Bengal moves closer to elections, this public display of friction between Rashtrapati Bhavan and Nabanna has provided fresh ammunition for political debate across the state.