New Delhi: A fresh centre-state showdown has erupted in West Bengal following President Droupadi Murmu’s recent visit to North Bengal, where she publicly expressed displeasure over alleged protocol lapses and venue changes during an International Santal Conference on March 7.
The President, addressing the event in Gossainpur near Bagdogra (shifted from Bidhannagar in the Phansidewa block of Darjeeling district, citing security and preparedness issues), lamented the lack of state-level representation. She remarked, “If the president visits a place, the chief minister and the ministers should also come. But she did not… I am also a daughter of Bengal. Mamata didi is like my younger sister. I do not know why she is angry with me, but I wish her well.”
The comments sparked outrage from the BJP, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing the TMC government of crossing limits and insulting the president. The Union Home Ministry swiftly sought explanations from the state, demanding a detailed report on protocol violations under the ‘Blue Book’ guidelines, including the absence of the chief minister, senior ministers, and proper reception arrangements.
In response, the centre demanded the deputation of Darjeeling District Magistrate Manish Mishra (who oversaw the visit) and Siliguri Police Commissioner C Sudhakar to central service, invoking IPS/IAS cadre rules that allow overriding state decisions in exceptional cases.
The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, countered by transferring DM Manish Mishra to the Home Department as special secretary on March 13 and appointing Sunil Agarwal as the new Darjeeling DM. Banerjee denied any breach, stating the president was received as per the approved lineup from Rashtrapati Bhavan and accusing the BJP of politicising the issue and misusing the highest office.
The TMC has also sought meetings with the president to present a report on tribal welfare efforts, but requests have been turned down so far. The episode highlights deepening tensions between Kolkata and Delhi ahead of key political developments.