• Source:JND

Amid an intensifying debate between the West Bengal government and the Centre, Union Home Secretary has sought a detailed report from Bengal Chief Secretary questioning the security and protocol lapses during President Draupadi Murmu's visit in Siliguri.

As per reports, the Centre has written a letter to Chief Secretary Nandini Chakravorty and sought a detailed report by 5 pm on Sunday. Authorities have demanded an explanation for why the state government failed to follow the rules outlined in the Blue Book.

The Blue Book is a confidential document that lists the security and protocol rules for the President, Vice President, and Prime minister and their families.

At the time of President's arrival, the mayor of Siliguri was the only official present. According to the authorities, this is a breach of protocol. The Centre had sought an explanation for the absence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the chief secretary, and the Director General of Police. As per the protocol, a Chief Minister or Minister must be present to receive the President.

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Centre Flagged Major Lapses

The Union authorities had asked Bengal government to provide an explanation about the unavailability of water at the President's washroom. Questions were raised as to why the President was taken to a route that was littered with garbage.

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The letter also sought details about action taken against officials, including the District Magistrate of Darjeeling, the Commissioner of Police in Siliguri, and the Additional District Magistrate, who were responsible for the arrangements.

Leaders React

Vice President C P Radhakrishnan labelled the lapses at the President’s event unfortunate and said the dignity of the high constitutional office must always be respected.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the incident, calling it “shameful and unprecedented". He said the All India Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal had crossed all limits and accused it of insulting the President during her visit.

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