New Delhi/Siliguri – A major political fight has broken out in West Bengal after President Droupadi Murmu spoke about problems during her visit to the 9th International Santal Conference on March 7, 2026. The event was in Darjeeling district near Siliguri. The President, who is from the Santal tribe, was the main guest. She was upset because the venue was changed at the last minute to a small place that was hard for many people to reach. She also pointed out that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other state leaders did not come to welcome her, which goes against normal rules. This has led to strong words from the Centre. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it a shameful insult. Union Home Minister Amit Shah said it was humiliating. The Union Home Ministry has asked the state for a detailed report. As of March 8, 2026, evening, the story is still developing with more leaders joining the debate. This issue touches on respect for the President’s office, tribal rights, and the ongoing battle between BJP and TMC in Bengal. Many see it as a sign of bigger problems in how states handle visits from top leaders.
The conference was to celebrate Santal culture and bring people together. But it turned into a controversy because of how it was handled. President Murmu’s words have gone viral on social media. People are talking about whether the state government did it on purpose or if it was just a mistake. With elections around the corner, this could affect votes in tribal areas. The Centre wants answers fast, and the state has sent some details but more are needed. This story shows how small things like venue choice can become big political issues in India.
The Incident at the Santal Conference
On March 7, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Darjeeling for the 9th International Santal Conference. The event was organized by private groups but had support from local officials. It was first set to happen at Bidhannagar in Phansidewa block. That spot has a large open field that can hold up to five lakh people. But the district administration changed it to Gossainpur near Bagdogra airport. They said it was for safety and to avoid traffic jams. The new place was smaller and about 30 km away, making it tough for villagers to come. Many Santals, who live in nearby areas, could not attend because of the distance and lack of transport.
After the main event at Gossainpur, the President went to Bidhannagar. There, she spoke to a big crowd and shared her feelings. “Today was the International Santal Conference. When I came here after attending it, I realised it would have been better if it had been held here, because the area is so vast… I don’t know what went through the administration’s mind… They said no, the place is congested. But I think five lakh people could gather here easily. But I don’t know why they took us there… I don’t know what went through the administration’s mind that they chose a place for the conference where the Santal people couldn’t go… I am very sad that the people here were unable to reach the conference because it was held so far away,” she said. This quote is from her speech, as reported by The Hindu.
She also talked about the welcome. Rules say that when the President visits, the Chief Minister, ministers, Chief Secretary, and DGP should be there at the airport or event. But no one from the top level came. “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,” President Murmu added. She hinted that maybe some people do not want Santals to unite. “Someone doesn’t want Santhal to get united, to progress, to get educated…someone doesn’t want Santhal to become strong. However, I know Santhals have sacrificed their lives for the nation,” she said.
Reports say there were other issues too. Like no proper water in the President’s washroom and dirt on the roads. These small things made the visit look bad. The President is known for being simple and close to people. Her speaking out like this is rare and shows how much it hurt her.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s Response
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee did not take long to reply. On the same day, she held a press meet in Kolkata. She said the event was private, not run by the state. Her government had told the organizers that they were not ready for such a big guest. “The letter is sent that these organizations don’t have any capability to organize the program of the Honorable President of India. They didn’t involve us, it is neither the state government program nor the state government was involved. So, whatever happened, the organizer is a private party… But it is the choice of the Honorable President, they accepted the invitation, so it is their prerogative, it is not our prerogative,” she explained. This was from a video shared by UNI.
Banerjee also hit back at critics. She said why no one talks about bad things in BJP states. “Why don’t you protest when atrocities are committed against tribals? First, do something for them, then say something. Don’t play politics at the time of the election, as per the BJP’s advice,” she said. She accused BJP of using the President for politics. “It’s unfortunate that politics is being played by using the President on the advice of BJP and by alleging that no work has been done for tribals. I feel ashamed to even say this. We respect the Hon’ble President. But, she too, has been sent to sell politics. I am sorry, madam. I have great regard for you, but you are being guided by BJP’s policies and BJP’s instructions,” she added.
TMC leaders said local MP and officials were there. They claimed no rules were broken because it was not an official state event. But many say the state should have done more to honor the President.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Strong Words
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted fast. On March 7, he posted on X. “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 of India. The TMC Government of West Bengal has truly crossed all limits. Their administration is responsible for this insult to the President. It is equally unfortunate that a subject as important as Santal culture is treated so casually by the West Bengal Government. The office of the President is above politics and the sanctity of this office should always be respected. One hopes better sense prevails among the West Bengal Government and TMC,” he wrote.
Modi said it’s not just about the President but also about tribals. He linked it to democracy and respect for constitution. This post got many likes and shares. BJP uses this to show TMC as anti-tribal.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s Criticism
On March 8, Amit Shah joined in. He said, “The TMC government in West Bengal today hit a new low in its anarchic behaviour by humiliating the President of India with its glaring disregard for protocol.” Shah called it disrespect for the highest post. He posted on social media, saying it’s sad for the country.
Other BJP leaders spoke too. Union Minister Annapurna Devi said it’s unfortunate. BJP MP Bandi Sanjay Kumar tweeted about the shame. Even Pawan Kalyan from another party said respect the President.
The Centre’s Probe and Latest Updates
The Union Home Ministry started a probe right away. On March 7 evening, they asked for a report from West Bengal. They want details on security, venue choice, and welcome rules. By March 8, the state sent a short report, but the Centre wants more by evening. Officials say there were clear breaks like no CM at airport.
Background on the Santal Community
Santals are one of India’s largest tribes. Over 7 million live in Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Assam. They have a strong history. In 1855, they led the Santal Rebellion against British rule. Leaders like Sidhu and Kanhu are heroes. Their culture has dances, music with drums, and festivals like Sohrai.
The International Santal Conference is to keep traditions alive and fight for rights. They face problems like land loss, poor schools, and jobs. President Murmu is from this group. Born in Odisha, she was a teacher and politician. As President, she pushes for tribal growth.
This event was to help unity. But the issues stopped many from joining.
Historical Context of Protocol Issues in India
In India, protocol for President visits is strict. The Blue Book has rules. States must provide security and welcome. Past rows include in Kerala or Tamil Nadu where CMs skipped events. But this one is big because the President spoke out.
In Bengal, TMC and BJP often clash. Like over CAA or farm laws. Tribals are key voters in north Bengal. BJP won seats there last time.
Political Implications and Reactions
This row could hurt TMC. BJP says it shows TMC ignores tribals. TMC says BJP does drama. Experts say it might help BJP in tribal areas for elections.
Social media is buzzing. One post said, “President Droupadi Murmu attended the International Santal Conference in Darjeeling, West Bengal. She expressed regret that the event was held far from the local Santal community…” Many support the President.
Other leaders like Vice President said it’s unacceptable.
What Might Happen Next
The probe report will come soon. If lapses, Centre might warn or take action. Tribal groups could protest. The President has moved on, but her words inspire.
FAQs
Q: What is the Bengal protocol breach about?
A: It’s about President Murmu’s visit to Darjeeling on March 7, 2026. The venue changed to a small place, and no state leaders welcomed her. She spoke about it, starting a row. Centre is probing.
Q: Why was President Murmu upset?
A: The venue shift made it hard for Santals to attend. She said a bigger field was available. Also, CM Mamata did not come, breaking rules. She felt it hurt tribal unity.
Q: What did Mamata Banerjee say?
A: She said it’s a private event. State warned organizers. Accused BJP of politics. Said no breach as not state program.
Q: PM Modi’s reaction?
A: He called it shameful insult to President and tribals. Said TMC crossed limits. Posted on X.
Q: Amit Shah’s view?
A: He said TMC humiliated President with anarchic behavior. Called it disregard for protocol.
Q: Details on the probe?
A: Home Ministry asked for report on March 7. Wants full details by March 8 evening on security, venue, welcome.
Q: Who are Santals?
A: Large tribe in East India. Known for 1855 rebellion. Culture includes dances, music. Face land, education issues.
Q: Was venue change needed?
A: State says for safety. But President said no, better options there. Probe will decide.
Q: Political effect?
A: Could help BJP in tribal votes. TMC defends work for tribals. Row before elections.
Q: Other reactions?
A: BJP leaders criticize. Some say President used for politics. Public supports her on X.