Rijiju Decries Venue Change Impacting President Murmu in Bengal

Key Takeaways

Kiren Rijiju criticized the handling of President Murmu's venue change.

The incident reflects broader political tensions in West Bengal .

President Murmu's dignity as the first tribal leader is at stake.

The venue change was made under contentious circumstances.

The West Bengal government has faced backlash from various groups.

New Delhi, March 8 (NationPress) Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, remarked on Sunday that the uproar regarding the venue alteration for the 9th International Santal Conference, along with the adversities encountered by India's first tribal President, Droupadi Murmu, is indeed "regrettable" not just for West Bengal but for the entire nation.

In a statement on social media platform X, Rijiju indirectly criticized the administration of Mamata Banerjee, underscoring that the President's role extends beyond political affiliations, representing the utmost constitutional integrity of the nation.

"It is truly unfortunate for both West Bengal and our entire country that such distress has arisen concerning our first tribal President, Droupadi Murmu Ji. The office of the President surpasses political boundaries, symbolizing the nation's highest constitutional integrity," stated the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs.

Previously, on Saturday, Rijiju expressed, "I have always been proud to be Adivasi and Indian. This disgraceful conduct by the Chief Minister of West Bengal has wounded my pride. To insult the esteemed tribal leader, Hon'ble Droupadi Murmu Ji, who occupies the Presidential office, is a disrespect to tribal pride and an affront to the Constitution of India."

These comments followed President Droupadi Murmu's expressed dissatisfaction over the abrupt venue change for the Santal Conference in West Bengal's Darjeeling district.

The gathering was initially set to occur in Phansidewa, but organizers had to relocate it to a smaller venue in Gossaipur after the state government allegedly denied permission at the original site, citing security issues.

During the event, President Murmu conveyed her concerns regarding the unexpected venue switch and the disruption it caused for attendees. She further mentioned that neither Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee nor any members of her Cabinet met with her during her visit to the state.

The ruling Trinamool Congress party in West Bengal has faced sharp criticisms from various societal segments regarding the events surrounding the President's program.

In response, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Trinamool Congress general secretary Abhishek Banerjee have made statements on social media rejecting these criticisms.

Point of View

Particularly concerning the treatment of significant political figures. The controversy not only affects the immediate participants but also raises questions about the respect and dignity afforded to constitutional offices in India.

NationPress

8 Aug 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Kiren Rijiju's comments?

Kiren Rijiju's comments were prompted by the last-minute change of venue for the 9th International Santal Conference, which he deemed disrespectful to President Droupadi Murmu.

What did President Droupadi Murmu say about the venue change?

President Droupadi Murmu expressed her displeasure regarding the sudden change and the inconvenience it caused to the attendees.

How has the West Bengal government responded?

The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has issued statements rejecting criticisms regarding the handling of the event.

What is the significance of the Santal Conference?

The Santal Conference is significant as it highlights issues concerning tribal communities in India and promotes their culture and rights.

What broader implications does this controversy have?

This controversy underscores the ongoing political tensions in India and raises questions about the respect afforded to constitutional offices.