New Delhi: Amid a row over alleged “lapses” during the President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to West Bengal, the Centre has sought a response from the state government over violations of rules related to protocol, venue and route arrangements, sources said.
In a letter to the West Bengal Chief Secretary, the Union Home Secretary asked him to furnish an explanation regarding alleged violations of the ‘Blue Book’ rules governing protocol, venue and route arrangements during the President’s visit. The ‘Blue Book’ is a confidential document outlining security and protocol procedures for the President, Vice-President and Prime Minister and their families.
President Murmu on Saturday expressed dismay over the low turnout at a tribal community event near Bagdogra airport and questioned the decision to shift the venue from Bidhannagar. She also noted the absence of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her ministers during her visit.
Sources said the communication to the Chief Secretary sought an explanation for the absence of the Chief Minister, the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police when the President arrived in the state, calling it a serious violation of the Blue Book rules. The Centre also noted that only Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb was present to receive the President at the airport.
According to sources, the washroom set up for the President allegedly did not have water, for which an explanation has also been sought. The state administration has further been asked to clarify why the route taken by the President’s convoy was littered with garbage.
The letter also seeks details on action taken against the Darjeeling District Magistrate, the Siliguri Commissioner of Police and the Additional District Magistrate, who are believed to be responsible for the arrangements.
Murmu had been invited to attend the annual programme of a tribal community originally scheduled at Bidhannagar in Siliguri. However, authorities later shifted the venue to Goshaipur near Bagdogra airport, citing security and logistical reasons. When the President arrived on Saturday afternoon, only a small gathering was present.
Vice President C P Radhakrishnan described the reported lapses as unfortunate, saying the dignity of the high constitutional office must always be upheld. Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed the incident “shameful and unprecedented”, accusing the state government of insulting the President.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and BSP president Mayawati also stressed that the dignity of the President’s office must be respected.
