President Droupadi Murmu Siliguri visit draws criticism from Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi criticised the West Bengal government over a reported snub of President Droupadi Murmu during her Siliguri visit. Majhi said the incident saddened Odisha and the tribal community, citing Murmu’s rise from Rairangpur. The President also questioned a venue change and noted low turnout at the 9th International Santhal Conclave.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi criticised the West Bengal government over a reported snub of President Droupadi Murmu during a visit to Siliguri. Majhi said the episode upset people in Odisha and tribal communities across India. Majhi, who belongs to the Santhal community, posted the remarks on social media on Saturday.

Earlier, President Murmu expressed disappointment at the 9th International Santhal Conclave near Bagdogra airport in Siliguri. President Murmu questioned the sudden venue change from Phansidewa and noted low attendance. President Murmu also pointed to the absence of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and ministers during the visit.

President Droupadi Murmu visit and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi response

The programme was first planned at Phansidewa, but later moved closer to Uttoran Township at Bidhannagar. The new site was a few kilometres from Bagdogra airport. A senior West Bengal government official cited security protocols for the shift. President Murmu raised questions about the change during the conclave.

Majhi said the venue decision was not just a management issue. Majhi argued that the change sent a poor message for an event led by the President. Majhi said the conclave was meant to honour Santhal heritage and identity. Majhi added that disruption to such an event deserved serious attention.

"Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji, the daughter of our soil who rose from Rairangpur to Rashtrapati Bhavan, represents the aspirations and pride of millions. As a member of the Santhal community, this hurtful action of the TMC Government of West Bengal has also created a deeper sense of anguish and hurt within me and the entire Odia populace.\"

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on President Droupadi Murmu and constitutional office

Majhi said the President’s post is India’s highest constitutional office. Majhi said it should remain above party conflict and stand for the Constitution’s dignity. Majhi also said actions that weaken respect for the office harm the constitutional framework. Majhi urged leaders to respect institutions and support tribal cultural events.

\"An occasion meant to celebrate the rich heritage and identity of the Santhal community should have been treated with the dignity and respect it deserves. Any act that diminishes the significance of such a gathering reflects a troubling lack of sensitivity towards our tribal brothers and sisters, Majhi said.\"

\"It stands above political differences and represents the dignity of the Constitution itself. Any action that undermines the sanctity of that office diminishes the respect owed to our constitutional framework. In a vibrant democracy like ours, such narrow political considerations have no place. Our institutions and the leaders who represent them must always be accorded the utmost respect, and events celebrating the heritage of our tribal communities should be encouraged, not obstructed, he added.\"

Odisha BJP on President Droupadi Murmu visit and Mamata Banerjee allegations

Odisha BJP also attacked Mamata Banerjee in a social media post. The party alleged that Banerjee insulted President Murmu during the visit. In a post on X in Odia, it said, \"West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee does not shy away from insulting our Odia daughter as well as Honble President of India.\" The party also criticised Congress and Naveen Patnaik-led BJD for silence.

The exchange added to political tensions around the conclave and the President’s schedule in Siliguri. Majhi said the issue went beyond party lines because of the Santhal community focus. The West Bengal government official linked the venue shift to security protocols. The dispute remained centred on attendance, venue changes, and the absence of senior state leaders.

With inputs from PTI