KOLKATA — Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Saturday, labeling the West Bengal government’s treatment of President Droupadi Murmu as “shameful and unprecedented.”
The Prime Minister’s remarks followed a series of pointed questions from the President regarding the state’s handling of the International Santhal Conference and its broader commitment to tribal welfare.
A Presidential Rebuke in North Bengal
President Murmu, attending the event as Chief Guest, openly questioned why the venue had been shifted from Bidhannagar to Goshaipur—a move that reportedly led to lower attendance. She further noted the absence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her cabinet ministers at the event.
“I do not know why the state administration did not allow the meeting there… I am also a daughter of Bengal. Mamata Banerjee is like my younger sister. I do not know whether she is upset,” the President remarked during the conference.
President Murmu also expressed skepticism regarding whether central developmental benefits were reaching the Santhal community in the region, suggesting that certain forces might be “stopping people” from uniting and progressing.
PM Modi Rebuffs “Casual Treatment” of Tribal Culture
Taking to social media to share a video of the President’s address, PM Modi accused the TMC of insulting both the high office of the President and the tribal community at large.
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On Democratic Values: “Everyone who believes in democracy and the empowerment of tribal communities is disheartened,” the PM wrote.
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On the Administration: He asserted that the West Bengal government had “crossed all limits” by treating Santhal culture casually.
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On Political Sanctity: The PM emphasized that the Office of the President remains above politics and must be respected by all state administrations.
Mamata Banerjee Hits Back
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, speaking from a protest in Kolkata, dismissed the criticisms as politically motivated ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.
“I would like to humbly request the President not to make statements that don’t speak well of your post,” Banerjee stated. She challenged the President’s focus on a single community and directed TMC MPs to submit a formal memorandum to Rashtrapati Bhawan detailing the state’s welfare work for SC/ST communities.
The TMC has since released a comprehensive list of state-led initiatives aimed at tribal development to counter the allegations of negligence.
