Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has written a strongly worded letter to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, expressing deep anguish over alleged protocol lapses and inadequate arrangements during President Droupadi Murmu’s recent visit to Siliguri for the International Santhal Conclave.
Dated March 11, 2026, the letter condemns the last-minute venue shift from an originally planned location to a smaller, less accessible site, citing poor courtesies, low turnout, and perceived disrespect toward India’s first tribal woman President.
In the letter, Majhi—who belongs to the Santhal community—described the episode as particularly painful ahead of International Women’s Day, stating it hurt the sentiments of millions of Adivasis, backward classes, and Dalits nationwide. He emphasised that India’s democratic traditions rest on mutual respect and dignity, and urged Banerjee to reflect on the matter, convey regret to the President, and issue a public apology to reaffirm commitment to constitutional values and the dignity of high offices.
The controversy stems from President Murmu’s own public expression of disappointment during the event, where she noted the absence of Banerjee or any senior state ministers to receive her, questioned the venue change, and highlighted limited participation. The row escalated with criticism from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and others, labelling it an “insult” to the President and tribal pride, prompting the Union Home Ministry to seek explanations from West Bengal on alleged Blue Book protocol violations.
Banerjee has rejected claims of any breach, asserting the event was organised by private entities (International Santal Council), not the state government, and that responsibility for mismanagement lay with organisers and the Airports Authority of India. She maintained full respect for the President’s office and accused political opponents of targeting Bengal ahead of elections.
