• Source:JND

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the public on Sunday on the eve of Women’s Day, lashed out at the Mamata government of West Bengal. PM Modi accused the state government of insulting President Droupadi Murmu during the March 7 event. Critising the state government, PM also said that the Mamata government has insulted the Santhal community, to which President Murmu belongs, adding that 'we should be proud of our heritage’.

During his speech, PM Modi said, “I am announcing from this stage that very soon people will change the TMC government. We should be proud of our heritage."

What Happened During President Murnu’s Visit

The controversy erupted after President Murmu’s Public Programme was shifted from the scheduled venue. Reacting to the change in venue, President Murmu, while addressing a gathering in Siliguri, said, "I'm also a daughter of Bengal. Mamata is like my younger sister. She might be angry with me, that's why she did the programme there, but I don't have any grudges with her."

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The row stemmed from the alleged disapproval of the venue for an International Adivasi Conclave in North Bengal, where President Murmu was scheduled to speak as Chief Guest. The President also lashed out at the state government over the lack of protocol, as when she arrived in Siliguri, the CM and the Council of Ministers were not present to receive her.

‘Don’t Play Politics On BJP’s Advice’: Mamata Over President’s Remark

Reacting to President Murmu’s statement, CM Mamata Banerjee suggested that she was speaking on the BJP’s advice and questioned her ‘silence’ on 'atrocities' against tribals in other states like Manipur and Chhattisgarh.

"It's unfortunate that politics is being played by using the Hon'ble President on the advice of the BJP, and by alleging that no work has been done for tribals," Banerjee said.

ALSO READ: 'Deeply Unfortunate': Mamata Banerjee Accuses BJP Of Attacking Democratic Institutions

Centre Seeks Report From West Bengal Govt Over President’s Visit

As the rift between the centre and West Bengal grows over the protocol violations during President Murmu’s visit, the Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has sought a detailed report from West Bengal Chief Secretary Nandini Chakravorty by 5 PM on Sunday, reported India Today, quoting sources.

The state Chief Secretary has been asked to explain the protocol lapses, venue arrangements, and convoy routes during President Droupadi Murmu’s visit.


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