Protocol Lapses at Prez Event: Centre Seeks Response From WB Govt

In a letter to the West Bengal chief secretary, the Union home secretary asked the state to submit a response by 5 pm on Sunday regarding alleged violations of the ‘Blue Book’ rules governing protocol, venue and route arrangements.

The ‘Blue Book’ is a confidential document that lays down security and protocol guidelines for the President, Vice-President and the Prime Minister.

Sources said the Centre sought clarification on the absence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the chief secretary and the Director General of Police when the President arrived in the state, describing it as a serious protocol violation.

According to sources, only Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb was present to receive the President at the airport.

The Centre has also sought an explanation regarding arrangements at the venue, including reports that the washroom prepared for the President had no water and that the route used for her convoy was littered with garbage.

The letter also asked the state government to report on any action taken against the Darjeeling District Magistrate, Siliguri Commissioner of Police and the Additional District Magistrate who were responsible for the arrangements.

President Murmu had been invited to attend the annual programme of a tribal community, originally scheduled to be held at Bidhannagar in Siliguri. Officials said the venue was later shifted to Gosaipur near Bagdogra airport citing security and logistical reasons.

When the President arrived at the venue on Saturday afternoon, only a small gathering was present.

"Mamata Banerjee is like my younger sister. I am also a daughter of Bengal. I do not know whether she is upset. Anyway, that does not matter. All of you stay well," the President said.

She also questioned the change of venue for the event.

"Had the programme been held there (at Bidhannagar), it would have been better. There is ample space there, and many people could have attended. But I do not know why the state administration did not permit the meeting there. Today's programme is being held at such a place that it is difficult for people to come here. Perhaps the state government does not want the welfare of tribals, and that is why they were prevented from coming here," she said.

Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan described the alleged lapses as unfortunate and said high constitutional offices must receive the dignity they deserve.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the West Bengal government, calling the incident “shameful and unprecedented”.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi also expressed concern over the alleged protocol violations.

Former Uttar Pradesh chief minister and BSP president Mayawati said constitutional offices must be respected and should not be politicised.