Centre seeks report from Bengal over protocol lapse during President Murmu’s visit
The Central government has sought an explanation from the West Bengal administration over alleged lapses in protocol during President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to attend a tribal conference in the state on Saturday.
Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has asked the West Bengal Chief Secretary to submit a detailed report by 5 PM on Sunday regarding the arrangements made during the President’s visit.
The report has been sought over the alleged failure to follow the prescribed protocol for receiving the President, the last-minute change in the venue of the International Santal Conference, the alteration of the travel route, and other logistical arrangements.
The move came a day after President Murmu publicly expressed disappointment with the arrangements made for the event. She also raised concerns over the decision to shift the venue of the conference in Darjeeling district and the absence of state ministers to receive her.
The conference was originally scheduled to be held at Bidhannagar under the Phansidewa block in Darjeeling district. However, the venue was later shifted to Gossainpur in the Bagdogra area on the outskirts of Siliguri.
After attending the event at Gossainpur, the President travelled nearly 30 kilometres to Bidhannagar, where she addressed residents and questioned the decision to change the venue.
Speaking on the occasion, Murmu said the vast area at Bidhannagar could have accommodated a large gathering and expressed regret that many members of the Santal community could not attend the conference due to the distance.
She also referred to the customary protocol followed during presidential visits, noting that the Chief Minister and state ministers are usually present to receive the President.
In a personal remark, Murmu said she considers herself a “daughter of Bengal” and wondered why the situation had arisen.
“I am also a daughter of Bengal. Mamata Didi is also my sister, my younger sister. I don’t know if she was angry with me, that’s why this happened,” the President said.
The Union Home Ministry has taken note of the President’s remarks and sought clarification from the state government over the circumstances that led to the venue change and the alleged deviation from protocol during the high-profile event. (ANI)
-ANI
