KOLKATA: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday publicly voiced her disappointment over what she described as a protocol breach during her visit to north Bengal for the 9th International Santhal Conference, noting that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee did not welcome her or attend the event.

Addressing the gathering at Goshaipur near Bagdogra airport (after a last-minute venue shift from Bidhannagar in Phansidewa block, Darjeeling district), President Murmu highlighted the absence of the Chief Minister, any state ministers, or even the Governor to receive her. She referred to Banerjee as her "younger sister" and wondered if she was "upset" with her. "Generally, it is seen that when the President is coming, the CM should be welcoming, and other ministers should be present. But she did not come," Murmu said. "Mamata Banerjee is like my younger sister. I do not know whether she is upset with me."

The President also expressed sadness over the venue change, which she said limited attendance and access for many Santhal participants, describing it as cramped and remote. She emphasized her identity as a "daughter of Bengal" and raised concerns about tribal welfare and recognition of Santhal contributions to India's freedom struggle.

The remarks, rare from the constitutional head, triggered a sharp political row ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the alleged treatment as "shameful and unprecedented," accusing the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government of insulting the President's office and mishandling the tribal event. Other BJP leaders demanded an apology from Banerjee, calling it a disrespect to constitutional institutions.

In response, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly rejected claims of any protocol violation, clarifying that the event—organized by a non-governmental body—was private, and neither she nor her ministers were included in the official reception or dais plan approved by the President's Secretariat. Via social media and public statements, Banerjee accused the BJP of politicizing the President's office and "playing politics" during election season. "I can welcome you if you come once a year, but if you come during elections, it won't be possible for me to attend your programmes as I am busy with people's rights," she said. She defended her government's tribal welfare record and questioned why similar concerns were not raised about tribals in BJP-ruled states.

The controversy escalated further, with the Union Home Ministry seeking a detailed report from the West Bengal chief secretary on alleged lapses in protocol, venue management, and route arrangements. Sources indicated the Centre highlighted the absence of key state officials at the airport as a potential Blue Book violation, with only Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb present to receive the President.

TMC leaders claimed the President was being used to malign Bengal, while opposition parties criticized Banerjee for arrogance toward the highest constitutional office. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar described the situation as "unfortunate" and stressed the need to uphold the dignity of high offices.

The episode has intensified Centre-state tensions, with both sides trading accusations amid the politically charged atmosphere in West Bengal.