Murmu calls Mamata younger sister, seeks reasons for venue shift of tribal meet in North Bengal

President Droupadi Murmu expressed dissatisfaction over the low turnout at a tribal community event in North Bengal, questioning the decision to shift the venue from Bidhannagar to Goshaipur near the Bagdogra airport. She noted the absence of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her ministers, saying, “Mamata Banerjee is like my younger sister, but I don’t know why she didn’t come.”

According to protocol, the Chief Minister or a minister of the state government is usually present to receive the President. Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb was the only state government representative present at the airport to receive her.

Murmu suggested the venue change might have been intentional, stating, “Perhaps the state government does not want the welfare of tribals, and that is why they were prevented from coming here.” She also highlighted broader challenges, saying, “Someone was not willing for this event to take place. It seems that some do not want the Santals to progress, to learn and to unite to be strong.”

However, citing security and other logistical reasons, authorities shifted the venue to Goshaipur, officials said.

In response, Mamata Banerjee accused BJP of using the President’s office to malign the state government, saying, “BJP has stooped so low that they are using President Droupadi Murmu to malign the state.” She prioritised addressing alleged electoral roll irregularities, stating, “I am busy with people’s rights and SIR; these are my priority.”

The CM also questioned BJP’s record on tribal welfare in states ruled by the party.

“Are you (President Murmu) aware how the saffron party is snatching away the rights of tribals in BJP-ruled states?” she asked.

Referring to the ethnic violence in Manipur, Banerjee said questions should be raised about how tribals were treated in BJP-governed states.

“President Murmu is talking about tribals, but why were you silent when tribals in Manipur and other BJP-ruled states were tortured?” the TMC supremo said.

She added that information conveyed to the President about the absence of state representatives at her programme was incorrect. Banerjee said it was not always possible for her to attend such programmes in the run-up to elections.

“I can welcome you if you come once a year, but if you come during elections, it won’t be possible for me to attend your programmes as I am busy with people’s rights,” she asserted.