President Murmu Slams Venue Change at Bengal Event
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Kolkata
- Mar 07, 2026
- 840
President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday expressed strong displeasure over the relocation of a programme venue during her visit to West Bengal, raising concerns about the treatment of tribal community events in the state.
Speaking at the 9th International Santhal Conference, the President remarked that the venue chosen for the event was too small and prevented many members of the tribal community from attending. She suggested that holding the programme in Bidhannagar, Siliguri would have been more appropriate, as it offered sufficient space to accommodate a larger gathering.
“I feel the state government does not want the welfare of the tribal people. Mamata Banerjee is like my younger sister, and I am also a daughter of Bengal,” Murmu said, expressing disappointment over the arrangements.
The President also noted that neither the Chief Minister nor any state minister was present to receive her during her arrival in North Bengal. According to protocol, senior representatives of the state government typically welcome the President during official visits. At the airport, only Gautam Deb, the Mayor of Siliguri, was present to receive her.
The event had initially been planned at Bidhannagar in Siliguri. However, citing security and logistical considerations, the state administration later shifted the venue to Gopalpur, Bagdogra near the airport. When the President arrived on Saturday afternoon, the limited space and difficult accessibility reportedly prevented many attendees from participating.
Murmu said it appeared as though some individuals were reluctant to allow such an international tribal conference to take place. She added that restricting participation could hinder the progress and empowerment of the Santhal community.
Reacting to the controversy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the dignity of the President’s office must always be upheld and should remain above political considerations.
In a post on the social media platform X (Twitter), the Prime Minister said those who believe in strengthening democracy and empowering tribal communities were deeply saddened by the incident. He further expressed hope that the state government and the All India Trinamool Congress would recognise the seriousness of the issue and act responsibly in the future.