Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the West Bengal government and TMC over the alleged insult to President Droupadi Murmu during her north Bengal visit, calling the incident “shameful and unprecedented” amid a growing political row.
PM Modi Targets TMC, Bengal govt for 'insulting' President Murmu
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday strongly criticised the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal, accusing it of disrespecting President Droupadi Murmu during her recent visit to north Bengal.
Reacting to the controversy, Modi described the development as “shameful and unprecedented”. In a post on social media platform X, the prime minister said the incident had saddened people across the country, especially those who believe in democratic values and the empowerment of tribal communities.
“The TMC government of West Bengal has crossed all limits. Their administration is responsible for this insult to the President,” Modi wrote.
“Is She Upset With Me?” President Murmu Jabs Mamata Banerjee, Her “Politics” Reply
The political row began after President Murmu attended the International Santhal Conference in north Bengal as the chief guest. During her address, the President questioned the change of venue for the event. According to her, the programme was originally planned in Bidhannagar but was later shifted to Goshaipur, where the turnout was reportedly low.
This is shameful and unprecedented. Everyone who believes in democracy and the empowerment of tribal communities is disheartened.
The pain and anguish expressed by Rashtrapati Ji, who herself hails from a tribal community, has caused immense sadness in the minds of the people… https://t.co/XGzwMCMFrT
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 7, 2026
Murmu also pointed out that neither Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee nor any member of her cabinet came to receive her during the visit. She said the administration had cited concerns of overcrowding at the earlier venue, but added that she found it surprising since she was able to reach the location without difficulty.
Expressing disappointment, Murmu remarked that the situation had left her hurt and puzzled about the reasons behind the changes.
In a lighter yet pointed remark during her speech, the President wondered whether Mamata Banerjee might be upset with her.
“I am also a daughter of Bengal and Mamata Banerjee is like my younger sister. I don’t know if she is angry with me for some reason,” Murmu said, adding that she held no complaints against the chief minister.
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The remarks quickly triggered strong reactions from the Bharatiya Janata Party. BJP leader Amit Malviya accused the Bengal government of disregarding constitutional norms and disrespecting the office of the President.
He said such incidents indicate administrative failure and a breakdown of governance, alleging that the state government had failed to maintain proper protocol during the President’s visit.
The controversy has further intensified the political battle in West Bengal, with the issue now turning into a major flashpoint between the BJP and the ruling Trinamool Congress.
