CM Chandrababu, Pawan Kalyan Flag Protocol Lapses During Murmu’s Bengal Visit

A political controversy has erupted across the country following alleged protocol lapses during President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to West Bengal , drawing sharp reactions from Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan . The leaders criticised the handling of the President’s tour, stating that the dignity of the nation’s highest constitutional office must always be protected.

President Murmu recently visited Siliguri and Darjeeling to attend the International Santhal Conference , an event aimed at celebrating the heritage and cultural identity of the Santhal tribal community. However, the visit drew attention after reports highlighted the absence of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other senior ministers during the programme. Concerns were also raised over the change of venue , which was reportedly shifted to a location far from many tribal settlements, making it difficult for members of the community to participate in the gathering.

Responding to the developments, CM Chandrababu Naidu said the episode was disturbing and stressed that the Office of the President symbolises the pride of the Indian Republic. He noted that constitutional institutions must remain above political differences and that governments are responsible for ensuring strict adherence to protocol during such visits. Describing the developments during the Siliguri tour as unfortunate, he said the respect and honour accorded to the President should never be compromised.

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan also criticised the arrangements surrounding the tribal conference. He questioned the decision to organise the event at a venue that reportedly restricted the participation of the Santhal community . According to him, a conference intended to celebrate tribal culture and traditions should have ensured the presence of the community itself. He further remarked that the local administrative machinery failed to conduct the President’s visit with dignity, especially considering that President Murmu herself comes from a tribal background .

Meanwhile, President Murmu reportedly expressed disappointment over the arrangements during her visit. She pointed out that it is customary for the Chief Minister of a state to attend official programmes involving the President, but such protocol was not followed during the Santhal conference. The President also questioned the decision to hold the event at a location that many tribal participants could not easily access, raising concerns about the planning of the programme.

The issue has now triggered a nationwide political debate . Leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have criticised the West Bengal government over the alleged lapses, while the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has rejected the allegations, describing them as politically motivated claims .

As the controversy continues, the episode has sparked a broader discussion on respecting constitutional offices and ensuring that the President of India receives the highest level of protocol and honour , regardless of political differences.