West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has responded to President Droupadi Murmu’s grievances regarding the management of a tribal conference held over the weekend. In her remarks, Banerjee asserted that the Trinamool Congress (TMC) was not responsible for organizing the event, emphasizing her presence at a protest for citizens’ rights during the President’s visit.

President Murmu had previously voiced her dissatisfaction with the arrangements made for the conference, including complaints about the absence of state government representatives.

Clarification on Attendance and Responsibility

During her ongoing protest, Banerjee stated that her party’s mayor attended the President’s event, countering claims that they did not honor her visit. She noted, “I was at the dharna; how could I have left it?” She further clarified that she was not informed about the President’s program prior to the dharna. The Chief Minister underscored her commitment to advocate for the voting rights of her constituents amidst the controversies.

Rebuttal of Mismanagement Claims

Addressing allegations against her administration for protocol lapses during the President’s visit, Banerjee highlighted that the conference venue fell under the jurisdiction of the Airport Authority of India. She urged that false accusations should not be made ahead of upcoming Legislative Assembly elections. “The West Bengal Government was not involved in any capacity. I verified the issues raised regarding facilities at the venue. If any problems occurred, they are the Airport Authority’s responsibility,” she stated. Additionally, she remarked that recent criticisms directed at the TMC are politically motivated in light of the forthcoming elections.

Response to Central Government Inquiry

In the wake of the ceremony, the Central government has requested a detailed explanation from the West Bengal administration about the alleged protocol violations during President Murmu’s visit to the tribal conference. Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has specifically instructed the Chief Secretary of West Bengal to provide a detailed report by 5 PM on Sunday. This report must address the failure to follow the established protocol for welcoming the President, the last-minute changes to the venue of the International Santal Conference, alterations to her route, and other logistical oversights.

Comments on Private Organisers

Banerjee also expressed concerns regarding the choice of the private organization responsible for organizing the event. She noted that the West Bengal government had previously submitted a letter cautioning that the organization might not have the capability to effectively manage an event of such significance. Despite these warnings, the President chose to accept the invitation to the conference. “It was not a state government program. The decision to proceed with the private organization was theirs,” she added, clarifying the nature of the event’s organization.

Final Remarks

As tensions rise in the political landscape, the Chief Minister’s statements reflect a desire to distance her administration from responsibility for the management of federal events in West Bengal. The ongoing communication from both state and central government officials marks a notable moment in West Bengal’s political climate as they prepare for the upcoming elections.

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