Protocol Breach: Centre Demands Answers from West Bengal

Amid alleged protocol lapses during President Droupadi Murmu's event in West Bengal, the Centre has requested a response from the state government. Concerns were raised over protocol violations, low event turnout, and inadequate reception arrangements for the President, leading to a request for explanations from the state's chief secretary.

The Centre has pressed the West Bengal government for an explanation regarding alleged protocol breaches during President Droupadi Murmu's recent visit to the state. A letter from the Union home secretary expressed concerns over failing to adhere to the 'Blue Book' rules concerning protocol, venue, and route arrangements.

President Murmu noted a surprisingly low turnout at a tribal community event and questioned why the venue was shifted from Bidhannagar. Tension was further heightened by the absence of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her ministers during the visit, with only the Siliguri Mayor present to receive the President.

The letter demands answers about the choice of garbage-laden travel routes and a washroom setup without water for the President. The state has been asked to clarify actions taken against the responsible officials, as Vice President C P Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the handling of the event.