Mamata Banerjee Criticizes Centre After Presidential Visit Controversy

Political tensions between the West Bengal government and the Central administration escalated following remarks made by President Droupadi Murmu during her visit to Siliguri. The President expressed her concerns over the low turnout at an event organized by the International Santal Council and questioned why Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee did not greet her upon arrival.

The confrontation comes as West Bengal prepares for upcoming assembly elections, intensifying the political climate between Banerjee’s All India Trinamool Congress and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). President Murmu noted that typically, the Chief Minister and other officials should be present to welcome her during such visits. She stated, “Generally, when the President is coming, the CM should be welcoming, and other ministers should be present. But she did not come.”

In response, Banerjee utilized social media to clarify the situation, asserting that the district administration had already communicated concerns regarding the event’s arrangements to the President’s Secretariat. She explained that the venue was inadequately prepared, a point emphasized after an Advanced Security Liaison team visited on March 5, 2026. Despite these warnings, the event proceeded as scheduled.

Banerjee further defended her administration, indicating that appropriate officials were present to welcome the President. She stated that the Mayor of Siliguri, the District Magistrate of Darjeeling, and the Siliguri Police Commissioner were part of the approved protocol shared with the President’s office. “There was no protocol lapse,” she asserted, emphasizing that the Chief Minister’s participation was not part of the initial plans.

In her remarks, President Murmu also questioned the choice of venue, suggesting it was not easily accessible for local communities, particularly tribal groups who were meant to attend. She expressed her disappointment and labeled Banerjee as a “younger sister,” highlighting personal ties while addressing the political implications.

The incident drew a sharp response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who condemned the situation as “shameful and unprecedented.” He expressed concern that those who support democracy and the empowerment of tribal communities were let down by the actions of the Trinamool Congress government. Modi stated that the office of the President is beyond politics and must be respected.

As the political exchange intensified, the Trinamool Congress responded to Modi’s remarks with a post from general secretary Abhishek Banerjee. He stated, “When the entire establishment lines up against Bengal, Bengal stands stronger. Bring it on,” referencing the various institutions and officials he believes oppose the state’s administration.

The escalating rhetoric between the West Bengal government and the Central administration signals a contentious political landscape as both parties gear up for the assembly elections. With each side sharpening their attacks, the coming weeks are expected to see heightened political activity and campaigning across the state.