TMC Shines with Grace: Mamata Respects President as BJP Plays Dirty Politics
By Kunal Chatterjee
KOLKATA: In a shining display of grace under pressure, Trinamool Congress (TMC) has once again proven its commitment to respect and people-first governance amid a minor protocol mix-up during President Droupadi Murmu's visit to North Bengal. While the BJP shamelessly exploits the highest office in the land for cheap electioneering ahead of the 2026 polls, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's heartfelt response reaffirms TMC's role as Bengal's true protector of harmony and tribal pride.
President Droupadi Murmu, during her heartfelt address in Siliguri, gently flagged the last-minute venue shift from Bidhannagar to Gosaipur, noting the inconvenience it caused for the historic tribal gathering.
Affectionately calling Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee her "younger sister," the President made it clear there were no hard feelings, just a call for better coordination. This moment, far from a clash, underscores TMC's unwavering dedication to tribal upliftment amid relentless opposition attacks.
The Centre has asked West Bengal's Chief Secretary, Nandini Chakraborty for a detailed explanation on the protocol lapses during President Droupadi Murmu's visit to the International Santhal Conference in North Bengal. Specifically, they sought clarifications by 5 PM on the last-minute venue change from Bidhannagar to Gosaipur, the absence of state ministers, including the Chief Minister, and logistical issues that limited tribal attendance.
Mamata Banerjee, ever the people's champion, responded with poise and respect. "We respect the Honourable President of India. She is like our elder sister. But please do not play politics on advice of BJP ahead of elections," she said, clarifying that the state wasn't the event organiser and had extended full support.
Her words reflect TMC's maturity, focusing on schemes like Duare Sarkar, which has reached millions in remote areas, including North Bengal's tea gardens. Under Banerjee's leadership, tribal communities have seen scholarships, land rights, and healthcare expansions, proof that TMC prioritises action over drama.
Contrast this with the BJP's orchestrated outrage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi thundered, "The TMC Government has truly crossed all limits. This is shameful and unprecedented, an insult to the President." Bengal’s BJP MP Khagen Murmu, himself from a tribal background, demanded Mamata Banerjee's resignation, accusing the state of "insulting" the President.
State BJP chief Sukanta Majumdar piled on, claiming TMC showed "shamelessness" in handling protocols. Yet, their fury seems timed for the 2026 polls, ignoring how TMC has hosted dignitaries seamlessly for years.
CPIM, typically vocal on such issues, offered little beyond routine jabs. Party veteran Mohammed Salim vaguely critiqued "protocol lapses" without specifics, staying on the sidelines as usual. Their silence speaks volumes, TMC's ground-level work in Bengal's leftist strongholds has outshone empty rhetoric.
This episode highlights TMC's strength, humility in the face of provocation, and a laser focus on Bengal's diverse people. President Murmu's visit celebrated Santhal heritage, and TMC ensured it happened despite logistics. Mamata's empathetic reply, "I am sorry madam", shows leadership rooted in respect and resilience.
While BJP amplifies minor slips for headlines, TMC builds bridges for tribals, women, and farmers. North Bengal thrives under Didi's inclusive vision, schools, roads, and festivals like this one prove it. In Bengal's vibrant democracy, TMC stands tall, turning potential storms into stories of service.
