As the controversy over the alleged "protocol breach" duringPresident Droupadi Murmu's visit to West Bengalexplodes, the Union Home Secretary has sent a letter to the Chief Secretary, requesting a detailed report on the violations. The letter has sought clarifications of the breaches of the rules in the 'Blue Book', a confidential document outlining the security and protocol guidelines for the President, Vice President, and Prime Minister, PTI reported.
In the letter, the MHA has asked why there was an absence of the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, and Director General of Police (DGP) to receive the President upon her arrival in the state. It noted that only the Siliguri mayor was present to welcome her, which constitutes a breach of protocol.
Citing sources, PTI reported that the washroom setup for the President lacked water, prompting the Centre to seek an explanation from the state government on this matter as well. The Centre has also asked for clarification on the last-minute changes to the event's venue and route arrangements. Originally scheduled to be held at Bidhannagar in Siliguri, the event was shifted to Goshaipur near Bagdogra Airport for "security and logistical reasons".
Further, the letter also highlighted that the route taken by the President was littered with garbage and demanded an explanation regarding actions taken against the Darjeeling District Magistrate, Siliguri Commissioner of Police, and Additional District Magistrate, who appear to be directly responsible for the lapses.
Also Read:'Shameful & Unprecedented': PM Modi Slams TMC For 'Insulting' President Murmu In Bengal - What Happened During Her Visit?
President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday expressed dissatisfaction over the low turnout at a tribal community event held near Bagdogra airport, questioning the decision to shift the venue from Bidhannagar.
"Generally, when the President is coming, the CM should be welcoming, and other ministers should be present. But she did not come. The governor has changed and could not come. But because the date was fixed, I have come. But it's okay. I would like to thank you for coming here," she told the gathering.
"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. Perhaps the state government does not want the welfare of tribals, and that is why they were prevented from coming here," Murmu said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also hit out at the TMC calling the matter "shameful" and "unprecedented".
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has rejected the allegations and accused the BJP of politicising the issue.
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