NEW DELHI: A political row has erupted over the recent International Santhal Conclave in West Bengal after the state government changed the venue for the event at the last minute. The controversy intensified after President Droupadi Murmu, who was scheduled to attend the event, publicly expressed displeasure over the decision and also noted the absence of chief minister Mamata Banerjee and other ministers during her visit.President Murmu said authorities informed her that the venue was shifted because the original location was congested. However, she questioned the reasoning, saying the new venue made it difficult for members of the Santhal community to attend the gathering.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War Live Updates: Third US carrier on way as Israel launches ‘extensive strikes’ on IranFresh Food Airlifted Into UAE: LuLu flies 80,000 kg of Indian produce; more imports planned‘Xi’s world order died with Khamenei’: The good, the bad, and ugly of US-Iran war for China ‘What Went Through The Administration’s Mind?’ Droupadi Murmu Flags Lapse, Mentions Mamata Banerjee Later, Murmu visited the original venue and challenged the claim made by authorities. “When I came here I found the field was big enough to accommodate 5 lakh people,” she said, adding that she felt very sad about the last-minute change in location.Addressing the International Santhal Council, the president also suggested that attempts were being made to prevent the community from progressing. “Someone doesn’t want Santhal to get united, to progress, to get educated…someone doesn’t want Santhal to become strong. However, I know Santhals have scarifised their lives for the nation.”Murmu, who herself belongs to the Santhal community, also said that the community’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle has not received proper recognition. “I know how much the Santals have contributed to the country’s freedom struggle. But the names of Santal legends have not deliberately been included in history,” she said, while stressing the need for education for Santhal children.The issue quickly escalated into a political confrontation between the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and the BJP-led central leadership.’BJP using President to malign Bengal’: MamataChief minister Mamata Banerjee questioned Murmu’s concern for tribal issues and accused the BJP of politicising the matter. “Why don’t you protest when atrocities are committed against tribals. Why don’t you protest when it happens in Madhya Pradesh or Chhattisgarh?… First do something for them, then say anything,” Banerjee said.“Don’t play politics at the time of the election, as per the BJP’s advice,” she added, further alleging that the BJP was using the president to target the state government. “BJP has stooped so low that it is using President Droupadi Murmu to malign West Bengal,” Banerjee said.The controversy also drew sharp reactions from several BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.’Shameful and unprecedented’: PM ModiPM Modi criticised the West Bengal government, calling the episode “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 of India. The TMC Government of West Bengal has truly crossed all limits. Their administration is responsible for this insult to the President,” he said in a post on X.“It is equally unfortunate that a subject as important as Santhal culture is treated so casually by the West Bengal Government. The office of the President is above politics and the sanctity of this office should always be respected. One hopes better sense prevails among the West Bengal Government and TMC,” he added.’New lows in TMC’s anarchic conduct’: Amit ShahUnion home minister Amit Shah also attacked the Mamata government over the incident. “The Trinamool government of West Bengal has sunk to new lows today through their anarchic conduct. By showing utter disregard for protocol, they have insulted the President of India. This incident has laid bare the deep rot within the Trinamool government.”He added, “A government that tramples on citizens’ constitutional rights at will does not hesitate to dishonour the nation’s highest constitutional office—the President. This affront to the President at an event organised by our tribal brothers and sisters is an insult to our nation and the values of our constitutional democracy. Every citizen who believes in democracy today is deeply hurt and anguished.”’Raises questions about conduct’: Dharmendra PradhanUnion education minister Dharmendra Pradhan also criticised the arrangements made during the president’s visit. “When the President is compelled to express disappointment over the arrangements made, it raises serious questions about the conduct and preparedness of the authorities responsible. The sanctity of constitutional offices must remain above politics,” he said.Odisha chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi also condemned the developments, saying they had hurt the sentiments of the tribal community. “Such actions raise serious concerns and convey an unfortunate message when an event, where the Hon’ble President herself was to grace the occasion as the Chief Guest, is subjected to such disruptions,” he said.Calling the episode insensitive, Majhi added: “As a member of the Santal community, this hurtful action of the TMC govt of West Bengal also created a deeper sense of anguish and hurt within me, and the entire Odia populace.”The controversy has now turned into a broader political battle between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress, with both sides accusing each other of politicising the issue involving tribal communities and the office of the President.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPolitical Storm in Bengal: PM Modi Targets TMC, Mamata Banerjee Hits Back Over Murmu RowTMC, BJP Engage In War Of Words Over Change In Governor Ahead of Assembly ElectionsTMC RS Nominee Menaka Guruswamy Declares: ‘Shall Fight EC in Every Court’ in Fiery First SpeechNishant Kumar Will Make Political Debut On March 8, To Formally Join JD(U) After Nitish’s RS Move‘What Went Through The Administration’s Mind?’ Droupadi Murmu Flags Lapse, Mentions Mamata BanerjeeThe Khamenei’s Killer: Israeli Missile Family India Is Quietly Acquiring | WatchBJP Blasts TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee’s Shocking Remark Against CEC Gyanesh KumarNo Confidence Motion Against Om Birla: Mamata Banerjee’s TMC Set To Support Resolution In Parliament”Future Is In Countries Like India…” Piyush Goyal Hails India As Engine Of Growth’PM Modi Betrayed India’: Rahul Gandhi Launches Scathing Attack Over US Trade Deal, Russian Oil123Photostories7 moments when karma is said to lose its power10 traditional breakfast dishes from small-town India that beat modern brunchTop 8 posh localities in Mumbai dominating the luxury real estate market’Final drive’: YouTuber Anurag Dobhal crashes SUV during livestream at 140 kmph; had spoken of ‘suicidal thoughts’ days earlier7-day Indian vegetarian high-protein breakfast ideasBulbbul’, ‘Stree’, ‘Chhorii’, ‘Pari’: Bollywood supernatural dramas tackling patriarchal oppression and feminist themesWomen’s Day 2026: Angelina Jolie as Maleficent, Cynthia Eviro as Elphaba – female villains who went roguefor good reasonsInternational Women’s Day 2026: 10 calcium-rich vegetarian foods for women and the right way to consume themTV’s funniest supernatural comedy serials: ‘Badi Dooooor Se Aaye Hai’ to ‘Pritam pyaare aur woh’Exclusive – The 50’s Divya Agarwal breaks silence on divorce rumours with husband Apurva Padgaonkar; says ‘We live in separate houses…’123Hot PicksMiddle East Oil RisksIran Mobile Missile LauncersDwarka ExpresswayUttam Nagar murderIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingFortnite Wild Weeks Power Hour EventDaksh ChaudharyUPSC ResultsMiddle East ConflictNoida AirportCody RhodesWWE Smackdown HighlightsUCEED ResultBombay High CourtWhere to watch ind vs nz t20

NEW DELHI: A political row has erupted over the recent International Santhal Conclave in West Bengal after the state government changed the venue for the event at the last minute. The controversy intensified after President Droupadi Murmu, who was scheduled to attend the event, publicly expressed displeasure over the decision and also noted the absence of chief minister Mamata Banerjee and other ministers during her visit.President Murmu said authorities informed her that the venue was shifted because the original location was congested. However, she questioned the reasoning, saying the new venue made it difficult for members of the Santhal community to attend the gathering.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War Live Updates: Third US carrier on way as Israel launches ‘extensive strikes’ on IranFresh Food Airlifted Into UAE: LuLu flies 80,000 kg of Indian produce; more imports planned‘Xi’s world order died with Khamenei’: The good, the bad, and ugly of US-Iran war for China ‘What Went Through The Administration’s Mind?’ Droupadi Murmu Flags Lapse, Mentions Mamata Banerjee Later, Murmu visited the original venue and challenged the claim made by authorities. “When I came here I found the field was big enough to accommodate 5 lakh people,” she said, adding that she felt very sad about the last-minute change in location.Addressing the International Santhal Council, the president also suggested that attempts were being made to prevent the community from progressing. “Someone doesn’t want Santhal to get united, to progress, to get educated…someone doesn’t want Santhal to become strong. However, I know Santhals have scarifised their lives for the nation.”Murmu, who herself belongs to the Santhal community, also said that the community’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle has not received proper recognition. “I know how much the Santals have contributed to the country’s freedom struggle. But the names of Santal legends have not deliberately been included in history,” she said, while stressing the need for education for Santhal children.The issue quickly escalated into a political confrontation between the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and the BJP-led central leadership.’BJP using President to malign Bengal’: MamataChief minister Mamata Banerjee questioned Murmu’s concern for tribal issues and accused the BJP of politicising the matter. “Why don’t you protest when atrocities are committed against tribals. Why don’t you protest when it happens in Madhya Pradesh or Chhattisgarh?… First do something for them, then say anything,” Banerjee said.“Don’t play politics at the time of the election, as per the BJP’s advice,” she added, further alleging that the BJP was using the president to target the state government. “BJP has stooped so low that it is using President Droupadi Murmu to malign West Bengal,” Banerjee said.The controversy also drew sharp reactions from several BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.’Shameful and unprecedented’: PM ModiPM Modi criticised the West Bengal government, calling the episode “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 of India. The TMC Government of West Bengal has truly crossed all limits. Their administration is responsible for this insult to the President,” he said in a post on X.“It is equally unfortunate that a subject as important as Santhal culture is treated so casually by the West Bengal Government. The office of the President is above politics and the sanctity of this office should always be respected. One hopes better sense prevails among the West Bengal Government and TMC,” he added.’New lows in TMC’s anarchic conduct’: Amit ShahUnion home minister Amit Shah also attacked the Mamata government over the incident. “The Trinamool government of West Bengal has sunk to new lows today through their anarchic conduct. By showing utter disregard for protocol, they have insulted the President of India. This incident has laid bare the deep rot within the Trinamool government.”He added, “A government that tramples on citizens’ constitutional rights at will does not hesitate to dishonour the nation’s highest constitutional office—the President. This affront to the President at an event organised by our tribal brothers and sisters is an insult to our nation and the values of our constitutional democracy. Every citizen who believes in democracy today is deeply hurt and anguished.”’Raises questions about conduct’: Dharmendra PradhanUnion education minister Dharmendra Pradhan also criticised the arrangements made during the president’s visit. “When the President is compelled to express disappointment over the arrangements made, it raises serious questions about the conduct and preparedness of the authorities responsible. The sanctity of constitutional offices must remain above politics,” he said.Odisha chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi also condemned the developments, saying they had hurt the sentiments of the tribal community. “Such actions raise serious concerns and convey an unfortunate message when an event, where the Hon’ble President herself was to grace the occasion as the Chief Guest, is subjected to such disruptions,” he said.Calling the episode insensitive, Majhi added: “As a member of the Santal community, this hurtful action of the TMC govt of West Bengal also created a deeper sense of anguish and hurt within me, and the entire Odia populace.”The controversy has now turned into a broader political battle between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress, with both sides accusing each other of politicising the issue involving tribal communities and the office of the President.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPolitical Storm in Bengal: PM Modi Targets TMC, Mamata Banerjee Hits Back Over Murmu RowTMC, BJP Engage In War Of Words Over Change In Governor Ahead of Assembly ElectionsTMC RS Nominee Menaka Guruswamy Declares: ‘Shall Fight EC in Every Court’ in Fiery First SpeechNishant Kumar Will Make Political Debut On March 8, To Formally Join JD(U) After Nitish’s RS Move‘What Went Through The Administration’s Mind?’ Droupadi Murmu Flags Lapse, Mentions Mamata BanerjeeThe Khamenei’s Killer: Israeli Missile Family India Is Quietly Acquiring | WatchBJP Blasts TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee’s Shocking Remark Against CEC Gyanesh KumarNo Confidence Motion Against Om Birla: Mamata Banerjee’s TMC Set To Support Resolution In Parliament”Future Is In Countries Like India…” Piyush Goyal Hails India As Engine Of Growth’PM Modi Betrayed India’: Rahul Gandhi Launches Scathing Attack Over US Trade Deal, Russian Oil123Photostories7 moments when karma is said to lose its power10 traditional breakfast dishes from small-town India that beat modern brunchTop 8 posh localities in Mumbai dominating the luxury real estate market’Final drive’: YouTuber Anurag Dobhal crashes SUV during livestream at 140 kmph; had spoken of ‘suicidal thoughts’ days earlier7-day Indian vegetarian high-protein breakfast ideasBulbbul’, ‘Stree’, ‘Chhorii’, ‘Pari’: Bollywood supernatural dramas tackling patriarchal oppression and feminist themesWomen’s Day 2026: Angelina Jolie as Maleficent, Cynthia Eviro as Elphaba – female villains who went roguefor good reasonsInternational Women’s Day 2026: 10 calcium-rich vegetarian foods for women and the right way to consume themTV’s funniest supernatural comedy serials: ‘Badi Dooooor Se Aaye Hai’ to ‘Pritam pyaare aur woh’Exclusive – The 50’s Divya Agarwal breaks silence on divorce rumours with husband Apurva Padgaonkar; says ‘We live in separate houses…’123Hot PicksMiddle East Oil RisksIran Mobile Missile LauncersDwarka ExpresswayUttam Nagar murderIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingFortnite Wild Weeks Power Hour EventDaksh ChaudharyUPSC ResultsMiddle East ConflictNoida AirportCody RhodesWWE Smackdown HighlightsUCEED ResultBombay High CourtWhere to watch ind vs nz t20


‘What Went Through The Administration’s Mind?’ Droupadi Murmu Flags Lapse, Mentions Mamata Banerjee

NEW DELHI: A political row has erupted over the recent International Santhal Conclave in West Bengal after the state government changed the venue for the event at the last minute. The controversy intensified after President Droupadi Murmu, who was scheduled to attend the event, publicly expressed displeasure over the decision and also noted the absence of chief minister Mamata Banerjee and other ministers during her visit.President Murmu said authorities informed her that the venue was shifted because the original location was congested. However, she questioned the reasoning, saying the new venue made it difficult for members of the Santhal community to attend the gathering.

‘What Went Through The Administration’s Mind?’ Droupadi Murmu Flags Lapse, Mentions Mamata Banerjee

Later, Murmu visited the original venue and challenged the claim made by authorities. “When I came here I found the field was big enough to accommodate 5 lakh people,” she said, adding that she felt very sad about the last-minute change in location.Addressing the International Santhal Council, the president also suggested that attempts were being made to prevent the community from progressing. “Someone doesn’t want Santhal to get united, to progress, to get educated…someone doesn’t want Santhal to become strong. However, I know Santhals have scarifised their lives for the nation.”Murmu, who herself belongs to the Santhal community, also said that the community’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle has not received proper recognition. “I know how much the Santals have contributed to the country’s freedom struggle. But the names of Santal legends have not deliberately been included in history,” she said, while stressing the need for education for Santhal children.The issue quickly escalated into a political confrontation between the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and the BJP-led central leadership.

BJP using President to malign Bengal’: Mamata

Chief minister Mamata Banerjee questioned Murmu’s concern for tribal issues and accused the BJP of politicising the matter. “Why don’t you protest when atrocities are committed against tribals. Why don’t you protest when it happens in Madhya Pradesh or Chhattisgarh?… First do something for them, then say anything,” Banerjee said.“Don’t play politics at the time of the election, as per the BJP’s advice,” she added, further alleging that the BJP was using the president to target the state government. “BJP has stooped so low that it is using President Droupadi Murmu to malign West Bengal,” Banerjee said.The controversy also drew sharp reactions from several BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

‘Shameful and unprecedented’: PM Modi

PM Modi criticised the West Bengal government, calling the episode “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 of India. The TMC Government of West Bengal has truly crossed all limits. Their administration is responsible for this insult to the President,” he said in a post on X.“It is equally unfortunate that a subject as important as Santhal culture is treated so casually by the West Bengal Government. The office of the President is above politics and the sanctity of this office should always be respected. One hopes better sense prevails among the West Bengal Government and TMC,” he added.

‘New lows in TMC’s anarchic conduct’: Amit Shah

Union home minister Amit Shah also attacked the Mamata government over the incident. “The Trinamool government of West Bengal has sunk to new lows today through their anarchic conduct. By showing utter disregard for protocol, they have insulted the President of India. This incident has laid bare the deep rot within the Trinamool government.”He added, “A government that tramples on citizens’ constitutional rights at will does not hesitate to dishonour the nation’s highest constitutional office—the President. This affront to the President at an event organised by our tribal brothers and sisters is an insult to our nation and the values of our constitutional democracy. Every citizen who believes in democracy today is deeply hurt and anguished.”

‘Raises questions about conduct’: Dharmendra Pradhan

Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan also criticised the arrangements made during the president’s visit. “When the President is compelled to express disappointment over the arrangements made, it raises serious questions about the conduct and preparedness of the authorities responsible. The sanctity of constitutional offices must remain above politics,” he said.Odisha chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi also condemned the developments, saying they had hurt the sentiments of the tribal community. “Such actions raise serious concerns and convey an unfortunate message when an event, where the Hon’ble President herself was to grace the occasion as the Chief Guest, is subjected to such disruptions,” he said.Calling the episode insensitive, Majhi added: “As a member of the Santal community, this hurtful action of the TMC govt of West Bengal also created a deeper sense of anguish and hurt within me, and the entire Odia populace.”The controversy has now turned into a broader political battle between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress, with both sides accusing each other of politicising the issue involving tribal communities and the office of the President.



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