Mayawati Calls Security Lapse During President's Visit 'Unfortunate'
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 8 (NationPress) In light of the recent security breach during President Droupadi Murmu's visit to West Bengal, Bahujan Samaj Party leader Mayawati expressed her dismay on Sunday, labeling the situation as extremely regrettable and highlighting the necessity of honoring the office of the President.
Mayawati took to the social media platform X, stating, "In accordance with the values and respect established by the Indian Constitution, it is imperative for all individuals to uphold the dignity of the Honourable President's position and adhere to its protocol. It is inappropriate to politicize this esteemed office in any manner."
She further pointed out, "The current President not only represents women but also comes from a tribal background. The events that transpired during her recent trip to West Bengal were unacceptable and very unfortunate. Furthermore, the recent politicization of Parliament, particularly regarding the position of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, is equally inappropriate. It would be more beneficial for all parties to rise above political differences and honor the dignity of constitutional roles," she remarked.
Mayawati urged that the upcoming session of Parliament, starting Monday, should proceed without any disruptions in the interest of the nation.
"The Parliament session beginning tomorrow should operate seamlessly for the benefit of the country and its citizens. This is what the public expects, as well as what is needed at this time," she emphasized.
Earlier, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju commented that the ongoing issue regarding the change of venue for the 9th International Santal Conference, along with the challenges faced by India's first tribal President Droupadi Murmu, is not just unfortunate for West Bengal but for the entire nation.
On the day of the incident, Rijiju stated, "I take immense pride in being Adivasi and Indian. The disgraceful actions of the Chief Minister of West Bengal have wounded my pride. Disrespecting the honorable tribal woman, Hon'ble Draupadi Murmu Ji, who holds the Presidential office, is an affront to tribal dignity and a violation of the Constitution of India."
These comments followed President Droupadi Murmu's expression of dissatisfaction regarding the last-minute venue alteration for the Santal Conference in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal.
Initially set to occur at Phansidewa, the event was forced to relocate to a smaller venue in Gossaipur after the state administration allegedly denied permission for the original site, citing security issues.
During the gathering, President Murmu voiced her concerns about the abrupt venue change and the resultant inconvenience for attendees, noting that neither Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee nor any members of her Cabinet greeted her during her state visit.
The government of West Bengal, led by the Trinamool Congress, has faced significant backlash from various sectors over the circumstances surrounding the President's program.
However, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Trinamool Congress General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee have issued statements on social media denying the criticisms.