Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has expressed serious concern regarding the ‘unfortunate’ and ‘disrespectful’ treatment of President Droupadi Murmu during her recent visit to West Bengal.
In a letter to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Majhi characterised the incident as “disturbing” and “inconsistent with constitutional values.” He emphasised that India’s democratic traditions are rooted in mutual respect and dignity, asserting that differences of opinion never become differences of heart.
“The manner in which the Hon’ble President, herself a respected tribal woman, was treated in West Bengal has caused deep pain to many across the country,” wrote Majhi in the letter.
The Chief Minister pointed out that a lack of basic courtesies during the President’s visit—specifically at an event involving the tribal community—had caused “deep pain to many across the country.”
He further highlighted that the incident, occurring on the eve of International Women’s Day, wounded the sentiments of Adivasis, backward classes, and Dalits throughout the country.
Majhi, who belongs to the Santhal community himself, wrote: “This incident has not only hurt the sentiments of millions of Adivasis, backward classes and Dalits across the country, but has also cast an avoidable shadow on the image of West Bengal, a land known for its culture, civility and respect for democratic institutions.”
He added that the Santhal community is large, spanning many parts of India, and contributes significantly to the nation’s development.
CM Majhi said that, as a member of the Santhal community, he is extremely distressed by this incident.
Urging Banerjee to contemplate the situation, Majhi called for a gesture of regret toward the President and the people of India. He argued that such an act would reaffirm a collective commitment to democratic norms and the sanctity of constitutional offices.
“I sincerely urge you to reflect on this matter and convey your regret to the Hon’ble President and to the people of the country. Such a gesture would help reaffirm our shared commitment to democratic norms and the dignity of constitutional offices,” urged Majhi.
President Murmu had attended the International Santal Conference in Siliguri, West Bengal, on March 7; however, the visit triggered political friction following alleged protocol lapses and subsequent observations regarding the event’s management.
