New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly criticised the All India Trinamool Congress after President Droupadi Murmu raised concerns about the arrangements for the International Santal Conference during her visit to north Bengal.
The President, who attended the event as chief guest, questioned why the venue was shifted from Bidhannagar to Goshaipur, where the turnout was reportedly lower. She also noted that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and members of her cabinet were not present to receive her during the visit.
Reacting to the development, Modi described the situation as “shameful and unprecedented” and said it had hurt people who believe in democratic values and the empowerment of tribal communities. He emphasised that the President comes from a tribal background and that her concerns had resonated with citizens across the country.
The Prime Minister also criticised the state government for what he described as a casual approach toward Santal culture. He said the office of the President stands above politics and its dignity and protocol should always be respected.
During her address at the conference, Murmu spoke about the need to strengthen development efforts for tribal communities and questioned whether government schemes and facilities were effectively reaching Santals and other tribal groups in the region. She also expressed surprise over the change in venue, stating that the earlier location had sufficient space for the event.
Responding to the controversy, Banerjee suggested that the President’s remarks were political in nature, especially with the state assembly elections approaching. She urged the President to avoid statements that could affect the dignity of the office and maintained that the West Bengal government has implemented several programmes aimed at the welfare and development of tribal communities.
The Trinamool Congress also defended its record, highlighting initiatives such as financial assistance schemes, scholarships for tribal students, and development programmes designed to improve living conditions in tribal dominated areas across the state.
