Mamata Challenges Modi Over Presidential Respect Row

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has escalated her political confrontation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, responding sharply to his criticism regarding her handling of President Droupadi Murmu’s recent visit to Darjeeling. The exchange highlights deepening tensions between state and central leadership and raises questions about political protocol and courtesy at the highest levels.

At a public rally on Sunday, 8 March, Mamata displayed a photograph from 31 March 2024, when President Murmu conferred the Bharat Ratna upon L. K. Advani. In the image, the President is standing while Prime Minister Modi is seated beside her. Mamata used this photograph to question the Prime Minister’s respect for the nation’s first tribal woman President.

Mamata’s Remarks

Speaking directly to Modi, she said: “Honourable Prime Minister, this is for you. Do you respect the President? She is a woman and a tribal leader. Then why is the President standing while you are sitting?” She argued that the photograph speaks volumes about who genuinely honours the office, despite public statements about respect for the President.

Mamata also accused Modi of exploiting his political appearances in West Bengal during election campaigns. “The BJP is using the President’s visit for political gains,” she claimed, adding that his rhetoric often disregards decorum and respect for constitutional institutions.

Background of the Controversy

The controversy began when President Murmu attended the Ninth International Santhal Conference in Darjeeling. During her address, she expressed disappointment that neither the Chief Minister nor other ministers formally welcomed her. She referred to Mamata as her “younger sister” and remarked that, as a daughter of Bengal, she was surprised by the Chief Minister’s absence. The President also raised concerns about last-minute venue changes and inadequate state support, suggesting that tribal welfare may not be prioritised.

Prime Minister Modi responded via X (formerly Twitter), calling the incident “shameful and unprecedented” and asserting that the disrespect to a tribal President had offended the conscience of the nation. He accused the West Bengal government of violating constitutional norms and undermining the dignity of the President during International Women’s Day celebrations.

Mamata, however, denied any protocol breach, stating that the event was organised by a private entity, the International Santhal Council. She noted that the district administration had formally informed the President’s office that the organisers lacked the capacity to manage such a high-profile event. According to the approved protocol list, only the Mayor of Siliguri and the Police Commissioner welcomed the President, and the Chief Minister’s name was not included, explaining her absence.

Meanwhile, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has reportedly requested a report from the West Bengal Chief Secretary regarding the alleged protocol issues.

Key Facts

The episode has reignited debates over respect for constitutional offices, tribal representation, and political protocol. Analysts note that it illustrates the growing polarisation in West Bengal politics and highlights tensions between state and central authorities, bringing issues of decorum, ceremonial conduct, and political optics into public discourse.