Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly criticised the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government after President Droupadi Murmu expressed concerns during her recent visit to West Bengal.
The President highlighted protocol lapses and inadequate arrangements at the 9th International Santal Conference in Siliguri, noting that neither Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee nor state ministers were present to receive her.
In his post on X, Modi accused the state administration of crossing all limits, disrespecting the office of the President (which stands above politics), and treating Santal culture casually. He expressed sadness over the anguish voiced by Murmu, a tribal leader herself, and called for better sense to prevail in the TMC government.
This is shameful and unprecedented. Everyone who believes in democracy and the empowerment of tribal communities is disheartened.
The pain and anguish expressed by Rashtrapati Ji, who herself hails from a tribal community, has caused immense sadness in the minds of the people… https://t.co/XGzwMCMFrT
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 7, 2026
Calling the incident “shameful and unprecedented,” Modi accused the TMC of disrespecting tribal culture and undermining constitutional propriety. He said the treatment of the President had hurt the dignity of her office and saddened those who value tribal empowerment.
Despite the controversy, President Murmu praised tribal heritage and urged communities to embrace modern development while preserving traditions, language, and environment. Her visit was cut short following the resignation of Governor C V Ananda Bose, with R N Ravi taking additional charge.
The episode has intensified political tensions in West Bengal, with the BJP framing it as evidence of governance failure under the TMC.
