Political clash erupts after President raises concerns over arrangements in West Bengal
March 8, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has criticised the government of Mamata Banerjee over what he described as an “insult” to Droupadi Murmu during the President’s recent visit to West Bengal. The controversy began after Murmu reportedly expressed displeasure over the arrangements made for her programme and the absence of senior state leaders. The Bharatiya Janata Party accused the state’s ruling Trinamool Congress of violating protocol and disrespecting the country’s highest constitutional office.
The issue surfaced during the President’s visit to attend the International Santali Conclave, where she noted that the venue had been shifted from Bidhannagar to Gosaipur near Bagdogra Airport. Speaking at an event near Phansidewa close to Siliguri, Murmu said she was disappointed that many people from the region could not attend because of the change in location. She also remarked that she considers Mamata Banerjee like a younger sister and wondered whether the Chief Minister was upset with her.
Responding to the criticism, Banerjee denied the allegations and accused the BJP of politicising the matter ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Speaking in Kolkata, she said the venue shift was due to security and logistical concerns and that the President’s office had been informed in advance. The row has since intensified political tensions in the state as parties trade accusations over the incident.