BJP MP Khagen Murmu demanded the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, alleging that she insulted President Droupadi Murmu.
The controversy erupted after the President expressed displeasure over the change of venue for her programme near Siliguri and the absence of the chief minister or senior cabinet ministers.
Murmu, addressing tribals at the International Santal Conference, described Banerjee as her “younger sister” but questioned her absence. He said that to uphold the dignity of Adivasis, Banerjee should step down. Later, Banerjee accused the President of speaking “on BJP’s advice” and asked why she remained silent on tribal issues in BJP-ruled states such as Manipur and Chhattisgarh.
BJP MLA Sankar Ghosh criticised Banerjee, claiming she disregards constitutional norms. He urged the Union Home Ministry to conduct a detailed probe into the incident and take action against state officials. Meanwhile, TMC minister Shashi Panja countered Khagen Murmu, questioning why he ignored the deletion of names of tribal women from electoral rolls during the special intensive revision.
The exchange has intensified political tensions in West Bengal, with BJP leaders accusing Banerjee of disrespecting the President and TMC leaders defending her while raising questions about tribal rights. The issue has become a flashpoint in the ongoing rivalry between the two parties.
