West Bengal Government Responds to MHA's Concerns Over Protocol Breaches During President Murmu's Visit
Synopsis
The West Bengal government has formally responded to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs regarding alleged protocol violations during President Droupadi Murmu's visit. The exchange highlights tensions and differing narratives between state officials and the MHA.
Key Takeaways
West Bengal government addressed MHA's queries on protocol violations.
Chief Secretary submitted a detailed report to the MHA.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee defended the state's adherence to protocol.
President's visit faced controversy over venue changes.
Political tensions escalated between state and central government.
Kolkata, March 9 (NationPress) The government of West Bengal has addressed the inquiries from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) concerning alleged protocol breaches during the visit of President Droupadi Murmu to the state on Saturday.
The MHA had requested a report from Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty’s office on Sunday morning, setting a deadline for 5 P.M. the same day for a response.
While a source from the state secretariat confirmed that a comprehensive response had been submitted to the MHA, they declined to disclose specific details, only mentioning that clarifications were provided regarding the protocol violations highlighted by the MHA.
On Sunday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee hinted at the clarifications the state government would present to the MHA regarding the alleged protocol breaches. She stated, “Upon the President’s arrival at Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri on Monday, the Mayor of Siliguri Municipal Corporation, Goutam Deb, the District Magistrate of Darjeeling, and the Commissioner of Siliguri Metropolitan Police (SMC) were present to welcome her, adhering to the protocol. There was no breach of protocol. I, as Chief Minister, had no arrangement to welcome her or be on stage. With the district administration in attendance, there was no question of protocol being violated,” she added on Sunday evening.
The President was initially scheduled to arrive in North Bengal on Friday afternoon, but her visit was delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.
She eventually landed at Bagdogra Airport at 11:30 AM on Saturday and was slated to attend an event for the tribal community in Phansidewa, near Siliguri in the Darjeeling district; however, the venue was later shifted to Gossaipur.
This venue change sparked controversy, prompting the President to express her disappointment. She later visited Phansidewa, the original event location, where she subtly criticized the state administration while referring to Mamata Banerjee as her younger sister.
The President also noted that neither the Chief Minister nor any members of her Cabinet were present to meet her during her state visit, which is traditionally expected during such occasions.
In the aftermath of her remarks, a heated exchange ensued between BJP leaders and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, leading to the MHA requesting clarifications from the state government regarding the protocol violations.
Point of View
The ongoing dialogue between the West Bengal government and the Union Ministry of Home Affairs underscores a significant political clash. The differing accounts of protocol adherence during President Murmu's visit illustrate the complexities of state-central relations in India.
NationPress
7 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the MHA to seek clarifications from the West Bengal government?
The MHA sought clarifications due to reported protocol violations during President Droupadi Murmu's visit to West Bengal.
What was the response of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding the protocol adherence?
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that there were no protocol violations during the President's arrival and emphasized that the district administration was present to welcome her.
Why was President Murmu's visit postponed?
The visit was postponed due to unavoidable circumstances prior to her arrival.
What were the events surrounding the President's visit?
President Murmu was scheduled to attend a function for the tribal community, which was initially set in Phansidewa but later changed to Gossaipur, causing some controversy.
Did the Chief Minister or any Cabinet members meet the President during her visit?
No, neither the Chief Minister nor any Cabinet members were present to meet the President, which is traditionally expected during such visits.
