US EditionPresident Murmu Highlights Santali Heritage at International Santal Conference
President Murmu criticized the venue change and absence of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, noting many Santhals were blocked from attending the 9th international Santhal Conference.
- On Saturday, March 7, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu said Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal Chief Minister, and state ministers did not give her a formal welcome at the 9th International Santhal Conference.
- Initially planned for Bidhannagar, the event was shifted to Gosainpur near Bagdogra after officials cited congestion, despite the Bidhannagar field having a 5 lakh capacity.
- Logistical failures included missing protocol details such as no separate washroom for the President, many Santhal attendees reportedly stopped from entering without security passes not arranged, and police changing the venue four times to the faraway Gosainpur site.
- Organisers called for strict action, saying the incident was criticized by opposition BJP and Congress, while the West Bengal government and Mamata Banerjee had not yet responded.
- During the visit, Murmu met local tribal residents, praising social harmony and noting the Governor's transfer prevented attendance; only Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb welcomed her, and she said 'Mamata Banerjee is my sister, my younger sister'.
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37 Articles
The Union Home Ministry has taken cognizance of the violation of protocol and the change of venue at President Draupadi Murmu's program in West Bengal and has sought a response from the state's Chief Secretary. The Home Minister has described the incident as an affront to constitutional dignity. Home Minister Amit Shah, on social media, described the TMC government's behavior as "lawless" and an insult to the office of the President.
aninews.in
'Unforgivable crime': Union Minister Joshi slams Mamata Banerjee over President's conference arrangements
The Union Minister's remarks come amid controversy over Mamata Banerjee's absence from a function attended by President Murmu in Kolkata.
President Murmu Highlights Santali Heritage at International Santal Conference
President Murmu Highlights Santali Heritage at International Santal Conference President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday addressed the 9th International Santal Conference in Darjeeling, West Bengal, emphasising the importance of preserving tribal languages, cultural heritage and traditional knowledge while advancing education, economic empowerment and sustainable development among tribal communities.Speaking at the gathering, the President paid tribu…
Times of India
The Economic TimesPresident Murmu calls Mamata younger sister, seeks reasons for venue shift of tribal meet in North Bengal
President Droupadi Murmu stated West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is like her younger sister. She questioned the absence of Banerjee and state ministers during her visit to north Bengal. The President also raised concerns about the relocation of a tribal community's annual program.
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