Siliguri witnessed a rare moment of presidential candour as President Droupadi Murmu openly criticised the venue selection and protocol lapses during her visit to attend the 9th International Santal Conference.
Addressing the gathering, she described the venue as “too small” for an international event, suggesting that a larger location such as Bidhannagar could have accommodated lakhs of attendees.
The President also noted that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other state ministers did not receive her upon arrival, calling it a breach of protocol.
While referring to Mamata Banerjee as her “little sister,” Murmu remarked that she might be upset, but questioned why such a cramped venue was chosen for a global conference.
Her comments have sparked political debate, with critics pointing to lapses in state-level arrangements and supporters praising her forthrightness.
