President Murmu flags protocol lapses during Bengal visit, says she holds no grudges against ‘sister’ Mamata

President Droupadi Murmu

Droupadi Murmu on Saturday expressed displeasure over the West Bengal government allegedly denying permission for an International Adivasi Conclave in North Bengal, where she was scheduled to attend as chief guest.

Speaking during her visit to Siliguri, the President also pointed to lapses in protocol and preparations, while stressing that she held no grudges against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, whom she referred to as her “sister.”

Murmu had arrived in Siliguri earlier in the day to address the 9th International Santhal Conference. Traditionally, the state’s chief minister and senior members of the council of ministers receive the President upon arrival. However, no senior ministers, including the chief minister, were present to receive her, reported The Darjeeling Chronicle.

During her address, the President also remarked that people were being prevented from entering the conference venue, raising concerns about the arrangements for the event.

Murmu later travelled to Bidhannagar in the Phansidewa area, a region with a significant Adivasi population, where she interacted with local residents.

Addressing the gathering there, she highlighted the social harmony in the region, saying communities including Adivasis, Gorkhas, Rajbangshis and Bengalis had lived together peacefully.

Despite expressing dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the visit, Murmu emphasised that she did not harbour any ill will toward the state government or the chief minister.