Centre Demands Detailed Response from West Bengal Over Alleged Protocol Lapses During President's Visit
The Union government has formally requested the West Bengal state administration to provide a comprehensive explanation regarding suspected violations of protocol during President Droupadi Murmu's recent visit to the state. According to sources cited by news agency PTI, the Centre has set a deadline of 5 pm on Sunday for the submission of this response.
Alleged Violations of the 'Blue Book' Protocol
In an official communication addressed to the West Bengal chief secretary, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has specifically asked for a detailed account concerning alleged breaches of the confidential 'Blue Book' regulations. This document meticulously outlines security and protocol procedures for high-ranking officials including the President, Vice-President, and Prime Minister, along with their families.
The letter from the Centre seeks clarification on multiple fronts. It questions the decision to change the venue of a tribal community event from Bidhannagar in Siliguri to Goshaipur near Bagdogra airport, citing security and logistical reasons provided by local authorities. President Murmu herself expressed disappointment over the notably low attendance at the relocated venue.
Notable Absences and Infrastructure Issues
A significant point of contention raised in the communication is the absence of key West Bengal officials during the President's arrival. According to highly placed sources, the letter explicitly seeks an explanation for why Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Secretary, and the Director General of Police were not present at the airport to receive President Murmu. This omission is viewed as a serious violation of established protocol.
Officials noted that only Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb was available at the airport for the reception. Furthermore, the Centre has taken note of additional concerning reports, including allegations that the washroom arranged for the President lacked running water, and that the chosen route for her transportation was allegedly littered with garbage. The state government has been asked to address these specific incidents as well.
President Murmu's Public Remarks and Political Reactions
During her visit on Saturday, President Murmu openly questioned the administrative decisions that impacted the event. "Had the programme been held there (at Bidhannagar), it would have been better. There is ample space there and many people could have attended," she stated, adding her perception that the state government might not prioritize tribal welfare, which could have prevented community members from attending.
Regarding Chief Minister Banerjee's absence, the President remarked, "Mamata Banerjee is like my younger sister. I am also a daughter of Bengal. I do not know whether she is upset. Anyway, that does not matter."
The incident has drawn strong reactions from other constitutional authorities. Vice President C P Radhakrishnan described the alleged lapses as unfortunate, emphasizing that a high constitutional office must always be accorded the dignity it deserves. Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the West Bengal government, labeling the situation as "shameful and unprecedented" and accusing the ruling Trinamool Congress of insulting the President during her state visit.
Accountability and Further Actions
The Centre's letter also requests detailed information on any disciplinary actions taken against officials deemed directly responsible for the alleged protocol failures. Specifically, it mentions the Darjeeling District Magistrate, the Siliguri Police Commissioner, and the Additional District Magistrate.
This development underscores ongoing tensions between the central and state governments, placing protocol adherence and administrative coordination under intense scrutiny. The West Bengal administration's response, due by the Sunday deadline, is anticipated to provide further clarity on the circumstances surrounding President Murmu's visit and the decisions made by local authorities.
