New Delhi: The Centre has asked the West Bengal government to submit an explanation over alleged protocol violations during President Droupadi Murmu’s recent visit to the state. Sources said the Union Home Ministry has sought a detailed response by 5 pm on Sunday regarding lapses related to official protocol, venue arrangements and the route taken during the President’s programme.

In a communication to the West Bengal chief secretary, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan asked the state administration to clarify alleged violations of the rules laid down in the ‘Blue Book’, the confidential document that outlines security and protocol procedures for the President, Vice-President and Prime Minister as well as their families.

The issue came to the fore after President Murmu on Saturday expressed disappointment over the low turnout at an event organised by a tribal community near Bagdogra airport. She also raised questions over the decision to shift the programme venue from Bidhannagar.

During her address, the President noted the absence of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other ministers during her visit.

According to highly placed sources, the Centre’s communication has 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. Under the Blue Book guidelines, senior state officials are expected to receive the President during such visits.

Officials said the Centre has taken note that only Siliguri Mayor Gautam Deb was present at the airport to receive the President, which is considered a deviation from established protocol.

Sources also indicated that the temporary washroom prepared for the President allegedly did not have water, prompting the Centre to seek clarification from the state government.

Questions have also been raised about the route arranged for the President’s convoy, with the administration asked to explain reports that the road was littered with garbage.

The letter has further sought details on whether action has been initiated against the Darjeeling District Magistrate, the Siliguri Commissioner of Police and the Additional District Magistrate, who are believed to have been responsible for arrangements connected with the visit.

President Murmu had been invited to attend the annual programme of a tribal community, which was initially planned to be held at Bidhannagar in Siliguri. Officials later shifted the venue to Goshaipur near Bagdogra airport citing security and logistical considerations.

However, when the President reached the venue on Saturday afternoon, only a small number of people were present.

"Mamata Banerjee is like my younger sister. I am also a daughter of Bengal. I do not know whether she is upset. Anyway, that does not matter. All of you stay well," the President had said.

She also questioned the change in venue for the event.

"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 here. Perhaps the state government does not want the welfare of tribals, and that is why they were prevented from coming here," Murmu said.
 

Under standard protocol, the Chief Minister or a senior minister from the state government is usually present to receive the President during official visits.

Reacting to the developments, Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan described the lapses as unfortunate, saying that a constitutional office of such stature must always be accorded the dignity it deserves.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also criticised the state government over the incident, calling it "shameful and unprecedented" and alleging that the ruling Trinamool Congress had "truly crossed all limits" in disrespecting the President during her visit.

PTI