A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal over the protocol controversy surrounding President Draupadi Murmu's visit to the state. (Image X @ani_digital)
Kolkata: A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal over the protocol controversy surrounding President Draupadi Murmu's visit to the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has targeted the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government on this issue. PM Modi wrote on social media that anyone who believes in democracy and the empowerment of the tribal community is saddened by this incident.
"The treatment meted out to the President is extremely shameful." PM Modi tweeted, "This is a very shameful incident. All those who believe in democracy and the empowerment of the tribal community are hurt and disappointed by this. The pain and sorrow expressed by the President, who herself comes from the tribal community, has deeply saddened the people of the country."
The Prime Minister said, "The TMC government of West Bengal has crossed all limits in this matter. The state administration is responsible for this insult to the President. It is also unfortunate that the West Bengal government has handled such an important issue as Santhal culture so casually." He said, "The office of the President is above politics and the dignity of this position must always be respected. It is hoped that the West Bengal government and the TMC will act wisely in this matter."
President Draupadi Murmu had visited in the Phansidewa area of Siliguri Mahakuma Parishad in West Bengal to attend the 9th International Santhal Conference. The President expressed displeasure and regret that the Chief Minister or any state minister was not present to receive her as per established protocol. However, she stated that she personally had no objection to this.
After the event, she expressed displeasure with the venue chosen for the conference. The President stated that the venue was too small, preventing a large number of Santhal community members from attending the event. She explained that the venue lacked sufficient space for even five thousand people.
After the conference, the President arrived at the Bidhannagar Ground to attend another event. She expressed surprise at the size of the ground, stating that it was large enough to accommodate millions of people. She added that if the International Santhal Conference had been held there, nearly five lakh people could have attended. The President questioned why such a small venue was chosen for the event when such a large venue was available.
In his address, the President also mentioned Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He said that Mamata Banerjee is like a younger sister to him and that he loves her as a sister. He also said that he does not believe Mamata Banerjee is angry with him, but despite this, he does not understand why such a small venue was chosen for the international conference. The President said that it seems as if he was invited to the event at a small venue and then sent back quickly.
Speaking from a protest site in Kolkata, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said, "I am ashamed to say that the President has been sent by the BJP to further its agenda. The President is caught up in BJP politics." Banerjee stated that the state government was not the organizer of the conference and had no knowledge of the program, organizers, or funding. She added that the President receives official information only when she visits or visits the state.
Mamata Banerjee asked, "Why did the President not speak out when atrocities were committed against tribals in states like Manipur, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra? A lot of work has been done for the development of the tribal community in West Bengal, but the President is not aware of it."
She said, "We respect the President. If you come 50 times, it's not possible to attend every event. I'm currently sitting on a protest." I had no knowledge of this event, its organizers, or funding. If you come once a year, I would welcome you, but if you come during elections, it will not be possible for me to attend your events because I am busy fighting for people's rights at that time.
Mamata Banerjee also alleged that politics is being played to divide Bengal before the elections and a conspiracy is being hatched to impose President's rule. She said, "After the Bengal elections, our next target will be Delhi, and we will travel across the country to expose the truth about the BJP." Mamata also said that she will reveal the Epstein file when the time comes.
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